Solo Mom Takes Flighthttp://solomomtakesflight.com
A Travel BlogTue, 20 Mar 2018 01:13:22 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.4Tips for Solo Travel with Children with ADHDhttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/tips-for-solo-travel-with-children-with-adhd/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/tips-for-solo-travel-with-children-with-adhd/#respondTue, 20 Mar 2018 01:03:44 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6510Paige McEachren is a mother of two young kids. In this guest post, she shares her tips on how to travel with children with ADHD. Paige blogs about her disordered life at www.pieceofpie.ca. You can also follow her on Twitter or Instagram. If you’re the parent of an ADHD child you’ve probably had the experience while traveling […]

]]>Paige McEachren is a mother of two young kids. In this guest post, she shares her tips on how to travel with children with ADHD. Paige blogs about her disordered life at www.pieceofpie.ca. You can also follow her on Twitter or Instagram.

If you’re the parent of an ADHD child you’ve probably had the experience while traveling where strangers look at you grumbling “why can’t they control that child?”. Fellow travelers can easily be irritated by your child’s enthusiastic energy and curious mind. Traveling with any child is challenging, no matter their age. Traveling solo with your kids adds extra challenges. And traveling solo with an ADHD child means you need to be prepared. Here are some tips for travel with children with ADHD I’ve learned through my adventures with my ADHD son and daughter.

Expect the Unexpected During Travel With An ADHD Child

As a mom to an ADHD child, this is a lesson you have probably already learned. It’s even truer when traveling. When traveling solo, you need to accept that things will happen that are out of your control. You are only one person. You can’t avoid the unexpected, all you can do control is how you handle it. Also, remember how your child reacts is greatly based on how you react to things.

Minimize the Potential for Problems

Yes, things happen that are out of your control. There are a few things you can do to help minimize problems. Some of the first things to consider are triggers for your child; whether it’s eating in a restaurant, interacting with strangers or sleeping in a place other than their bed. With my son, half the time he can’t live without his sister, but when stressed his sister pushes his buttons. I also find keeping them focused on separate things instead of playing together or sharing works best while traveling.

I try to prepare them by picking out restaurants they will like and sharing our plans ahead of time. This includes sharing our travel schedule, location, activities, and reason for travel. If you are going to see particular sights or people, print off photos for them to look at before the trip. This will go a long way in minimizing the potential for stress and anxiety, which can lead to outbursts and meltdowns. They, like adults, are able to deal with change if they know more about what is happening.

Accept Help When It’s Offered

No one expects you to be Wonder Woman or Superman. There’s no reason you should try. Accept help when people offer. Whether it’s taking advantage of pre-boarding, receiving help with a bag, or a flight attendant whose willing to lend an extra hand, in-flight accept the help.

Plan and Prepare

Whether traveling by plane, train or automobile you need to have an arsenal at your disposal. Solo moms and dads need to keep carry-on bags fully stocked. First, include snacks — lots of them. Adults get cranky when hungry, and it’s no different for kids. Especially during travel which disrupts routine and causes stress for some children. Second, pack distraction toys (fidget spinners, legos, books, small bouncy balls, etc.). Anything that can take can both distract and entertain your child is a must-have. Third, invest in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones. Good headphones work wonders on reducing the number of stimuli and help keep children calm. If there is a particular song, show or movie your child enjoys, load up their iPad before starting your trip.

Other Travel Tips For ADHD Kids

On a plane, be prepared to get up and walk the aisle with your child. It can be fun to visit the flight attendants in the back galley. Choosing an aisle seat makes for easier access.

When traveling in a car, ensure everything you need is in your bag on the front seat. Trust me. Driving across the country and trying to find something in your bag on the floor of the back seat to soothe your child can be dangerous.

Let Them Release Energy Whenever Possible

For any child to sit still during a plane or car ride can be difficult. It helps to think of things from their point of view. Everything can be an adventure (and a distraction). Check out the bathroom on the plane, allow a few minutes to check out the store at the gas station or take a break to visit a playground you pass. All children need to run, yell and play. For an ADHD child, releasing energy is essential.

Take A Deep Breath

Take lots of travel breaks. Remember, it’s about the journey, not just the destination. Remember ADHD kids get overstimulated easily. Plan some scheduled downtime for you and your child. It will go a long way to making the trip more enjoyable for everyone.

If all else fails, remember you will likely never see these people again.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/tips-for-solo-travel-with-children-with-adhd/feed/0Phoenix With Kids – Ultimate Guide on Where to Stay, Play and Eathttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/phoenix-with-kids/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/phoenix-with-kids/#respondThu, 25 Jan 2018 04:51:20 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6458Phoenix is the largest city in Arizona. It is also incredibly kid-friendly. If you are headed to Phoenix with kids, this is the perfect place to start. Every hotel, restaurant, and activity has been tested firsthand. Read on to find my recommendations for what to do in Phoenix with kids. Kid-Friendly Resorts in Phoenix Phoenix […]

]]>Phoenix is the largest city in Arizona. It is also incredibly kid-friendly. If you are headed to Phoenix with kids, this is the perfect place to start. Every hotel, restaurant, and activity has been tested firsthand. Read on to find my recommendations for what to do in Phoenix with kids.

Kid-Friendly Resorts in Phoenix

Phoenix splits into a variety of areas. You will need a car to explore the city. These two resorts offer different settings but are both perfect for families.

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch

The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale is a perfect place to start your Phoenix adventure. Designed with families in mind, the rooms are quite sizeable. Parking is easy whether you want to valet or self-park. The lobby is home to many places to sit, enjoy a snack or have dinner.

The one issue you may have with the Hyatt Regency is tearing your kids away from the incredible pool area. With a waterslide, beach entry pool (complete with sand), family hot tub and more, they are not going to want to leave.

By the pool, there is also a playground, rock climbing, and several outdoor games. There is an entire island of beach bag chairs to hang out in. Adults will love taking a break at the adult-only pool after a day of fun.

Like most Hyatt Regency hotels, there is a concierge lounge available. This one is worth upgrading to as the breakfast is plentiful. There are lots of snacks available during the day. At night, enjoy a glass of wine while the kids munch on appetizers or desserts. Compared to other Regency lounges, this Hyatt Regency Scottsdale provides a serene environment with a huge patio and beautiful outdoor space. The cookies are also delicious.

Spa Avania at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale

You can’t really stay at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale without visiting Spa Aviana. Luckily, for solo parents or couples that want to visit together, the Hyatt offers a kids club. The club is open daily and allows your kids to learn about Arizona in a fun setting. It’s open daily for kids 3-12. After you drop them off, head directly across the walkway to the spa. Plan to arrive early or stay late, as the spa offers incredible waters like a large mineral pool, an outdoor rain shower and a hot tub. For extra luxury, book a session in the salt room.

While visiting, I tried a hot herbal poultice massage. It was a unique and wonderful experience. The masseuse listened to my areas of concern and tailored the treatment to help me feel my best. The treatment involved placing steamed Thai herbs against my body to sooth muscle tension and stiffness. It was really one of the best treatments I have tried.

An added bonus for Regency Club level guests is that you have free access to the spa waters during your stay.

Wigwam Arizona

The Wigwam Arizona is located in Litchfield Park, Arizona. The location is approximately 25 minutes from downtown Phoenix. The hotel is rich in history and it shows. The hotel features several buildings that are designed in Territorial Adobe style. The rooms are incredibly spacious with large living spaces perfect for families.

The hotel features two pools. One for adults which includes a sizeable hot tub. The second pool for kids features a large waterslide and splash pad. (Note: The waterslide is closed during the winter season).

What families will love about this resort is that it reflects how casual Arizona can be. You can stroll by rose bushes, roast marshmallows by a fire and play lawn games. Even Litchfield’s, the fine dining restaurant on property, welcomes guests to dress in resort casual attire.

Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Phoenix

There are some incredible kid-friendly restaurants in Phoenix. Here are some of my favorites.

Joe’s Farm Grill

Joe’s Farm Grill is part of a larger complex named Agritopia. The restaurant is in what was the original farm homestead and great care was taken to preserve the original fireplace and trinkets. The remainder of the restaurant is incredibly modern. The idea behind the restaurant is that it is diner food done really well. They have hit the nail on the head. The food is incredibly fresh and good with that diner feel. Whatever you do, don’t skip the milkshakes. Sit indoors or bring your kids outdoors and let them enjoy their own kid-sized picnic table. Before leaving, head to the washrooms. They are incredibly fun.

The Farm At South Mountain

The Farm at South Mountain is an incredibly unique experience in dining in Phoenix. There are a few restaurants, the two main ones being a brunch spot and the Farm Kitchen. Both feature farm to table dining in a very literal way. Stroll the grounds to see which vegetables are ready for picking and featured on the menu.

Kids will love visiting the chickens and playing on the expansive lawn which you enjoy some of the best food Phoenix has to offer. My recommendation is to split a salad and a few sandwiches to try as much on the expansive menu as you can. You won’t regret it.

Rock Springs Café

The Rock Springs Café is known for one thing; pie. Here you won’t be limited to apple pie but will have a huge menu to choose from. The restaurant has been serving pie for 100 years to Arizona residents and is a lot of fun to check out.

Queen Creek Olive Mill

The Queen Creek Olive Mill is a unique place to bring kids. You can do a quick tour that takes you through olive harvesting and shows you the process of making olive oil. The expansive gift shop features numerous bottles of oil to try. Kids will love the baked goods and delicious gelato offered by the restaurant. Order inside but make sure to take your meal out to the picnic tables located under the olive grove. It’s a beautiful setting for a delicious meal.

The Henry

The Henry is a great spot for Sunday brunch and people watching. The kids’ menu features some good options but the restaurant’s strengths lie in its coffee and baked goods. Treat your kids to an incredibly sticky caramel bun and fresh-squeezed juice while you enjoy a selection of coffees or even brunch cocktails.

Things To Do in Phoenix with Kids

While you are in Phoenix, you will find there are plenty of things to do in Phoenix with kids. From the Children’s Museum to the Science Center, there are lots of indoor activities for younger kids. If your kids are a little older and adventurous like mine you are going to want to head outside. Here are some fun adventurous things to do in Phoenix with kids.

Arizona Outdoor Fun Tours and Adventures

Arizona Outdoor Fun Tours focus on ATV and UTV tours. A UTV is a larger ATV with 4 seats and a roof. More importantly, your kids are going to love it. The tour begins with an introduction for anyone of driving age. After that, the whole family heads out into the Arizona wilderness where you may see snakes, rabbits or even a mountain lion. The guides are highly skilled and knowledgeable. They are very respectful of the land and its history and will teach you about the plants and history of the area along the tour. The tour lasts around 2 hours and is a great way to get outside with your kids.

Fort McDowell Adventures (Segway Tours)

Fort McDowell Adventures is one of my best memories of Phoenix. The tour guide is incredibly knowledgeable regarding Arizona but beyond that, he is a lot of fun. The guides know the Segway well and will teach your kids how to properly ride one. They will ensure everyone is comfortable and will not go at excessive speeds.

One of the really unique features of Fort McDowell Adventures is that they have access to private trails in the Sonoran Desert. We got to see a baby cow out for a walk and several jackrabbits. The tour also features historical finds like an ancient spear tip and mysterious drawings left on rocks by nomadic tribes.

Fun Outdoor Activities in Phoenix with Younger Kids

If you have younger kids or just simply want a little less adventure in your outdoor fun, the following activities are perfect for a day out in Phoenix.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/phoenix-with-kids/feed/0Myrtle The Purple Turtle – Book Reviewhttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/myrtle-purple-turtle-book-review/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/myrtle-purple-turtle-book-review/#commentsThu, 18 Jan 2018 02:56:19 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6449My kids have been lucky enough to meet kids from all over the world. Some speak a different language and most look different than my red-headed son. To my kids, they all have one thing in common; they are friends. Topics like skin colour, race, and religion come up in a positive light at home. […]

]]>My kids have been lucky enough to meet kids from all over the world. Some speak a different language and most look different than my red-headed son. To my kids, they all have one thing in common; they are friends.

Topics like skin colour, race, and religion come up in a positive light at home. Still, the kids tell me stories that show more is going on at school. My daughter has already faced the dreaded criticisms of being “chubby” and having curly hair. And let’s not get into what Will, my redhead, has faced. That’s why I fell so in love with Myrtle the Purple Turtle and I think you will to.

Myrtle the Purple Turtle

One thing I have become very conscious of is that even if the messages my kids receive at home are of love and acceptance, they are inundated by messages of hatred in the media. I am very thankful that we have been privileged enough to take them to some of the countries most recently mentioned in the news to see that they are in fact wonderful places full of amazing people.

I picked up Myrtle the Purple Turtle for a few reasons. The primary reason, in full disclosure, is that I know the author. I do admit I do not know her well but instead am privileged enough to call one of her daughters my friend. When I heard that her mother had written a children’s book I knew I needed to read it. Here is why. Cynthia Reyes’ daughter is one of the most well-rounded people I know. She is funny, smart and confident. She lifts weights, has an amazing career and is an all-around great person. My thinking was that if Cynthia Reyes’ was handing out advice to kids in any form, I wanted a piece of that pie for mine.

Tackling the Tough Subjects

With racism, religious tensions and more flooding our media, it’s hard to want to broach these subject with your kids at all. Still, as a mom, I want to ensure that positive messages regarding these subjects are coming from my home. Who better to do it than an adorable purple turtle named Myrtle?

The gist of the book is that Myrtle, being purple, is a bit of an unusual turtle at the pond. Myrtle tries and tries to change her looks but in the end, realizes that being purple is actually quite special. What I particularly love about this book, is that while in this case, the issue is skin or more accurately shell colour, the lessons apply to any self-doubt about looking different.

If you are looking for a way to introduce more positivity, understanding, and self-confidence into your children’s lives, there is no better place to start than with this lovely story about Myrtle, the purple turtle.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/myrtle-purple-turtle-book-review/feed/1Best Resort In Vietnam For Families – The Anamhttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/best-resort-in-vietnam-for-families/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/best-resort-in-vietnam-for-families/#respondTue, 02 Jan 2018 03:21:24 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6413Traveling through Vietnam as a family is an experience unlike any other. The sights, smells, sounds, and tastes stimulate every sense for travelers of all ages. After exploring the lush green mountains of Northern Vietnam and the noise and action of the major cities, take a moment to relax at The Anam Resort located in […]

]]>Traveling through Vietnam as a family is an experience unlike any other. The sights, smells, sounds, and tastes stimulate every sense for travelers of all ages. After exploring the lush green mountains of Northern Vietnam and the noise and action of the major cities, take a moment to relax at The Anam Resort located in Cam Ranh in South Vietnam. Here’s what makes the Anam the best resort in Vietnam for families.

Cam Ranh, Vietnam

Cam Ranh is accessible via the Cam Ranh International Airport. The Anam Resort is located just 20 minutes from the airport and 30 minutes from Nha Trang city, a well-known beach destination. The flight from Ho Chi Minh City is only one hour and from Hanoi is 90 minutes. Once you arrive, you will find you are a world away from the bustling cities of Vietnam.

The Anam Resort

Every aspect of the Anam resort contains an element of luxury. A flurry of staff members who assist with everything from check-in to providing you with cool refreshments on a hot day greet you at the door upon arrival.

The view from the lobby lets you know you have arrived in a true Vietnamese paradise. What surprised me the most upon arrival was how much the area looked like Hawaii. A bonus — this vacation will cost you about a third of what you would pay for a similar resort in Hawaii or the Caribbean.

The Beach at The Anam

One of the true perks of a stay at the Anam is the privacy of the beach. Nestled on the coast of the South China Sea, the beach is extremely private.

While Vietnam is incredibly safe, families will love that the Anam provides round the clock security and daily lawn chair services. The beach is wide enough that families will have no problem finding a space to set up for the day.

Family Villas at The Anam

While the rooms at the Anam resort are impeccable, nothing compares to the luxurious family villas.

The special touches and thought out set-up will impress families who love good resorts. Each villa features a kitchen, sitting rooms, and luxurious bedrooms. Children will love having their own space and bathroom. As an added bonus, each villa has a private pool.

Rooms at the Anam

The rooms at the Anam are equally gorgeous. The suites feature large living rooms, huge balconies and a bathroom that will make you wonder if you should even go outside. This is truly a place of luxury and relaxation. No one will blame you when you cancel all your plans to enjoy room service and a bath.

Childcare at The Anam

The children’s club at the Anam resort is set up in the building closest to the beach. The complimentary club has direct access to the sand to play and a large lawn to run around on. When kids are ready for some indoor time there are plenty of indoor activities set up as well as indoor play and rest area.

The Food at The Anam

Breakfast at the Anam is a daily celebration. Expect fresh local fruits, plenty of options from meats and cheeses to warm dishes like fresh omelets and a Vietnamese selection of local specialties like Pho. During the day, there are plenty of options from the main restaurant to poolside dining and a few smaller restaurants. Coming soon, the Anam is opening a dedicated Vietnamese restaurant as they have found travelers truly want to experience a taste of Vietnam. A cool thing that they are already doing is hosting “Mama’s nights”. These nights, the Anam opens their restaurant to the local staffs’ mothers who come in and cook traditional meals with local ingredients. It is truly a not-to-be-missed experience.

Extra Luxury Touches at The Anam

What the Anam resort truly excels in is providing a luxury experience. There is constant staff available to fulfill your every wish. By the pool, there are plenty of chairs, free sunscreen and daily treats like fresh fruit and juices.

The Spa at The Anam

As a self-appointed spa connoisseur, I was blown away by the spa at the Anam Resort. Set in a quiet area of the resort, the spa is absolutely stunning. There are private areas for men and women, relaxation rooms, large treatment rooms and gorgeous waters. I experienced a massage during a rainstorm and as the rain hit the roof, I came to the realization that this resort is in fact paradise found.

The Anam Resort – Best Resort in Vietnam for Families

When planning resort travel, I can admit that until now Vietnam was not on my radar. While I easily pictured the busy city streets and delicious foods, I didn’t imagine quiet beach resorts and stunning views. Traveling to the Anam Resort means a slightly different vacation than what you may be used to but also allows you to introduce international travel to your family at an incredible price. There are shuttles to take you to Nha Trang for daily doses of life in Vietnam. You will also likely experience the city life in either Ho Chi Men or Hanoi before arriving at the Anam. Once your feet hit the warm sand of the South China Sea, all the noise and stress of daily life will simply evaporate into thin air.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/best-resort-in-vietnam-for-families/feed/0Win Banff Gondola Admission to See Santa on Sulphur Mountainhttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/win-banff-gondola-admission-to-see-santa-on-sulphur-mountain/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/win-banff-gondola-admission-to-see-santa-on-sulphur-mountain/#commentsWed, 13 Dec 2017 20:48:49 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6401It’s never easy being a parent around the holidays. The bills start to add up and you constantly have to remember to move the elf. Why not take a break this Christmas season to check out one of the top things to do in Banff at Christmas? Read on to find out more about Christmas […]

]]>It’s never easy being a parent around the holidays. The bills start to add up and you constantly have to remember to move the elf. Why not take a break this Christmas season to check out one of the top things to do in Banff at Christmas? Read on to find out more about Christmas at the Banff Gondola and enter to win a family pack of passes for 4!

Christmas at the Banff Gondola

Christmas has definitely arrived at Sulphur Mountain. Santa is waiting in his workshop to welcome your family 7486 feet above sea level. That’s not all, both the lower and upper terminals of the Banff Gondola are now a winter wonderland.

There’s plenty to do besides seeing the big guy in red. Kids will love taking part in the freshly baked cookie decorating, the 12 Animals of Christmas Treasure Hunt and the Above Banff Theatre movie featuring a Disney Christmas film. Best of all, all the activities are included in your admission to the Banff Gondola. Christmas at the Banff gondola is definitely one of the top things to do in Banff at Christmas and continues until January 7th.

Alberta Residents Discount

Right now Alberta residents can save 25% on booking Banff Gondola passes until December 20, 2017. Just head to the Banff Gondola Website and look for the Alberta Residents option. Remember, proof of residency is required and tickets must be booked in advance.

Win a Trip Up the Banff Gondola to See Santa!

Brewster Travel wants to give your family a chance to head up the Banff Gondola to see Santa for free. Enter here until December 19th, 2017!

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/win-banff-gondola-admission-to-see-santa-on-sulphur-mountain/feed/11Incredible Gifts That Give Back This Holiday Season Across Canadahttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/incredible-gifts-that-give-back-this-holiday-season-across-canada/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/incredible-gifts-that-give-back-this-holiday-season-across-canada/#commentsSat, 02 Dec 2017 00:16:48 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6385The holiday season is by far my favourite time of year. I look forward to time spent with family, eating all the things and checking out plenty of fun activities with the kids. Like many other Canadians, I also use the holidays as a time to give back. An easy way to do so is […]

]]>The holiday season is by far my favourite time of year. I look forward to time spent with family, eating all the things and checking out plenty of fun activities with the kids. Like many other Canadians, I also use the holidays as a time to give back. An easy way to do so is to order some of these incredible gifts that give back this holiday season across Canada.

Alberta

Wraps of Hope

Aldila Boutique in Calgary created the Wrap of Hope in support of the Calgary’s Women in Need Society. $10 from the purchase of each wrap sold goes directions to a deserving woman in the community. You can also stop by and buy one to be donated to a woman in need. (http://www.womeninneed.net/shop/)

Alora Diane Collection

The Alora Diane Collection was designed in support of the Mustard Seed. Each piece incorporates keys that represent unlocking the strength, bravery, and power the individual and as a symbol of the home. $10 from the purchase of each piece helps to transition people off the streets, and ultimately, into a home. (https://www.alora.ca)

Photo Credit: Alora

British Columbia

The Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood House is offering $99 gifts baskets full of artisinal and hand-made items from local businesses. Think olive oil, tea, salmon, honey, coffee and more. All proceeds benefit the Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood House. The best part- delivery is free in Vancouver, Richmond and Burnaby. (http://dtesnhouse.ca/?p=1750)

Maison Birks

Know a bee lover? Gift them with the perfect gift that gives back to their favourite insect. The Birks For Bees campaign supports social beekeeping across Canada in partnership with Alvéole, an urban beekeeping group that merges education and social responsibility. 10% of proceeds from all sales of the Birks Bee Chic Onyx Bracelet and Birks Bee Chic Mother of Pearl Bracelet benefit beekeeping initiatives. (https://www.maisonbirks.com)

Photo Credit: Maison Birks

ME to WE

ME to We offers an enormous gift catalogue full of jewelry, stocking stuffers, chocolate and more. Each purchase from the catalogue helps empower a child, family or entire community with the tools and resources to create a better life. (https://shop.metowe.com)

Photo Credit: ME to WE

Pay It Forward Friday

Know a brand, company or organization doing awesome things that should be featured in Pay It Forward Friday? I’m always looking to help spread the word on ways we can help each other. Leave a comment on this post or email me directly at sarah@solomomtakesflight.com

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/incredible-gifts-that-give-back-this-holiday-season-across-canada/feed/16 Best Holiday Events in Toronto for Familieshttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/6-best-holiday-events-in-toronto-for-families/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/6-best-holiday-events-in-toronto-for-families/#respondMon, 30 Oct 2017 15:28:00 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=5821From European style Christmas markets to parades and fireworks, Toronto knows how to celebrate the holidays. Here is your complete guide to the 6 Best Holiday Events in Toronto for Families. 1. Santa Clause Parade In its 113th year, the Toronto Santa Clause Parade is a Canada wide tradition. Kicking off at 12:30 pm on November […]

]]>From European style Christmas markets to parades and fireworks, Toronto knows how to celebrate the holidays. Here is your complete guide to the 6 Best Holiday Events in Toronto for Families.

1. Santa Clause Parade

In its 113th year, the Toronto Santa Clause Parade is a Canada wide tradition. Kicking off at 12:30 pm on November 19th, families can pick a number of places along the route to settle in for the parade. I find that University Avenue south of Dundas provides ample space for families wanting a great view. Dress in layers. Bring a blanket to sit on. Bring snacks.

2. Santa’s Log Cabin at the Toronto Eaton Centre

From November 18th until December 24th, kids can meet up with Santa himself at the Toronto Eaton Centre. Where this event differs from others is in the attention paid to detail. The ticketed event includes a holiday-themed story time and some individual time interacting with the big man himself. All proceeds go to one of three charities of your choice.

3. Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Philips Square

The Cavalcade of Lights is the City Hall kick-off to the holiday season in Toronto. Taking place on November 25th at 7 PM. The evening starts with the lightning of the official Toronto tree. The night continues with lights, music, performances and fireworks. This event is quite crowded and not easy to navigate with a stroller. I find if we stay back a little, we can still enjoy the party and have a great view of the fireworks.

4. The Toronto Christmas Market

Speaking of crowds, one of Toronto’s most popular events and my personal favourite is the Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery. I visit the market several times during the Christmas season to get the best of all of it. For families visiting with children, I personally recommend going on the weekend as soon as it opens. This year the market is opening much earlier (November 16) and will be open on weekends at 10 am. During the week it opens at noon. These extended hours will give you plenty of time to experience the Market without the crowds. I also recommend visiting without the kids for an evening. The market is the perfect date spot with plenty to see and do and lots of spots to cozy up as a couple or with friends and enjoy a mulled wine.

5. The Nutcracker

No holiday post is really complete without including the National Ballet of Canada’s performance of The Nutcracker. Each performance includes a story time that is free for ticket holders and occurs 1 hour before the ballet starts. I recommend attending story time or reading the story at home before attending, fuelling up on snacks and explaining to your children before hand how a ballet works. Attending The Nutcracker with loved ones is a tradition passed on through generations.

6. Casa Loma

As the holiday season is kicking off particularly early this year, I will continue to update this list as more of my favourite activities confirm whether or not they will again host holiday celebrations. This includes Casa Loma who had a spectacular light show last year.

Tis the Season

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/6-best-holiday-events-in-toronto-for-families/feed/0The Rec Room — Next Level Family Entertainmenthttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/the-rec-room-calgary/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/the-rec-room-calgary/#respondTue, 24 Oct 2017 14:51:08 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6362I was recently invited to check out the new Canadian entertainment space, The Rec Room. Currently open in Toronto, Calgary and Edmonton, The Rec Room is taking Canada by storm. I checked out The Rec Room Calgary and found an experience unlike any other. Here’s the lowdown of Canada’s newest entertainment space. The Rec Room […]

]]>I was recently invited to check out the new Canadian entertainment space, The Rec Room. Currently open in Toronto, Calgary and Edmonton, The Rec Room is taking Canada by storm. I checked out The Rec Room Calgary and found an experience unlike any other. Here’s the lowdown of Canada’s newest entertainment space.

The Rec Room Calgary

From the moment you open the door, you realize The Rec Room is not a regular arcade/restaurant. It is huge. The Rec Room Calgary is over 50,000 square feet. The Toronto location clocks in at 40,000 square feet. Both are incredibly modern, clean and equally impressive.

At first glance, I really had no idea what to expect. Within moments of entering, a staff member welcomed me and the kids. He then explained how The Rec Room Calgary works. All of The Rec Room locations operate using RFID bracelets (Radio Frequency Identification) for game credits or food and drinks. You can load your bracelet with a certain amount of credits. All tickets earned are also stored electronically on your bracelet. Once slight snafu for families is that you cannot buy a credit package and divide it onto 2 or more bracelets. Thus, if your kids each want a bracelet, it will cost you a little more than someone else buying the same amount of credits. The “tickets” you earn for prizes are also tied to one specific bracelet and cannot be combined or transferred.

That being said, the Rec Room has some incredibly cool features you won’t find in any regular arcade.

Video Games

I’m a gamer at heart. I was pleased to see a return to some traditional video games at the Rec Room Calgary. With over 80 video games from a giant Pacman game to a super fun Mario Kart set up, my childhood quickly returned to me.

While my kids tried newer games, I spent most of my credits reliving my youth and playing Star Wars pinball. It was fun to share this experience with my kids.

Augmented Climbing Wall

While I pondered my future as Canadian pinball champion, my kids headed over to the augmented climbing wall. Standing 12 feet high, the wall is hard to miss. You have the choice of 4 games: Whack a Bat, Sparks, Climball and Augment Problems. My kids mostly stuck to Whack A Bat. I couldn’t resist trying it and had to admit through my exhaustion that the wall was incredibly fun.

Redemption Games and The Trophy Case

As a mom of two kids, I hate stuff. Hate it. There are so many times we come home with more “stuff”. Things no one needs and no one particularly remembers when I sneak it out of the house. I was a little weary to let the kids play redemption games or as I call them “ticket games” because I frankly don’t need any more stuff. That was until I wandered into The Trophy Case on my own. Once I checked out the incredible prizes from Star Wars socks to legit home goods, I found myself swiping into the ticket games to help bring home one of the really cool prizes waiting to be won.

Food

If I asked you to name an arcade with decent food, I bet you couldn’t. Greasy pizza and frozen foods dropped in a fryer tend to rule the gaming scene. Thus, I was intent on trying the food at The Rec Room Calgary before writing this review.

The Rec Room Calgary offers two different food options. The Shed, a walk-up counter offers a variety of poutines and donuts. THREE10, a traditional sit-down restaurant offers handcrafted dishes from impressive salads to a variety of delicious Canadian meat dishes.

My nine year old dug into a smoked brisket poutine while I enjoyed a roasted beet salad paired with a perfectly chilled sauvignon blanc. During the meal, it occurred to me that I would eat at The Rec Room without gaming. My kids wouldn’t admit the same as they begged to return to the games.

The Rec Room Calgary

All in all, I was incredibly impressed by the Rec Room model and the Rec Room Calgary. I’ve visited three times in total and am as impressed by the staff as I am the gaming and food. The staff is trained in gaming but seems to have been handpicked due particularly to their enthusiasm. Not once have I seen a staff member who doesn’t look happy to be there.

The Rec Room is opening locations across Canada. Currently four locations are open. The Rec Room Calgary, The Rec Room Toronto Roundhouse, The Rec Room West Edmonton Mall and The Rec Room South Edmonton. Look for locations opening next in Masonville near London, Ontario and Square One Mississauga.

I was an invited guest of The Rec Room Calgary during their opening event. I have attended two other times on my own, once before and once after the opening. My opinions are my own.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/the-rec-room-calgary/feed/0Nintendo Switch Contesthttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/nintendo-switch-contest/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/nintendo-switch-contest/#respondTue, 10 Oct 2017 22:29:37 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6319Every once in a while, a contest or opportunity arrives in my email that I just have to share with you. As some of you know, Nintendo holds a particularly large spot in my heart. Some of my earliest memories are of gaming as a family and it’s a tradition I have passed on to my […]

]]>Every once in a while, a contest or opportunity arrives in my email that I just have to share with you. As some of you know, Nintendo holds a particularly large spot in my heart. Some of my earliest memories are of gaming as a family and it’s a tradition I have passed on to my kids. The most common Nintendo of Canada question I get is: “Where do I get a Nintendo Switch before Christmas?”. Turns out Post Canada is offering a great way to get one. From now until January 31, 2018 at Noon EST, you can enter to win one of 60 Nintendo Switch Prize Packs, consisting of a Nintendo Switch system and the Super Mario Odysseygame. Here’s how.

Nintendo Switch Giveaway

Entering the Nintendo of Canada giveaway is easy. This holiday, PINs can be found inside 1 million specially-marked Post cereal boxes, including Honey Bunches of Oats, Honeycomb, Sugar Crisp, Alpha-Bits and Shreddies. Each PIN is not only an entry to win 1 of 60 prize packs but also can be redeemed for a reward of 50 My Nintendo Platinum Points. The My Nintendo Platinum points can, in turn, be redeemed for select downloadable rewards through the My Nintendo rewards program. (A Nintendo Account is required to receive and redeem My Nintendo Platinum Points).

A huge thanks to Nintendo of Canada for sending this opportunity my way. Now head straight to the grocery store and start collection those pins!

Legal Stuff

*No purchase necessary. PIN required. Contest begins October 9, 2017 at 12:00:01 p.m. ET and closes January 31, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. (noon) ET. Open to legal residents of Canada who are over the age of majority. Correct answer to mathematical skill testing question required. Sixty (60) Nintendo Switch prize packs available to be won, approximate value of $479.98 each. Each prize consists of (1) Nintendo Switch system and (1) Super Mario Odyssey game. Regardless of the win or non-win Notification Entrant receives, every Entrant who registers for the Promotion and enters a valid PIN will receive a code valid for fifty (50) My Nintendo Platinum Points (the “Points Code”). The Points Code can be redeemed at www.mynintendo.com. Odds of instantly winning depend on number and timing of eligible entries. Limit of one (1) entry per unique PIN. Limit of one (1) prize per household. Limit 1 x 50 Points Code (valid until 12/31/18) per PIN. A Nintendo Account is required to receive and redeem My Nintendo Platinum Points. By creating a Nintendo Account, user is automatically enrolled in the My Nintendo rewards program. My Nintendo Rewards Points Terms of Service apply https://accounts.nintendo.com/term_point. Conditions apply. Visit www.postconsumerbrands.ca/NintendoSwitch for full Contest Rules. Nintendo is not a sponsor, co-sponsor or administrator of this contest.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/nintendo-switch-contest/feed/0Back to School – Endy Mattress Reviewhttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/back-to-school-endy-mattress-review/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/back-to-school-endy-mattress-review/#commentsTue, 03 Oct 2017 18:35:27 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6297This summer, we made some big changes. First and foremost, we picked up and moved west to Calgary, Alberta from Toronto, Ontario. As we prepped the kids for a new school year in a new city, we knew we needed to make another change. Charlie, seven years old, was sleeping on a stack of not one […]

]]>This summer, we made some big changes. First and foremost, we picked up and moved west to Calgary, Alberta from Toronto, Ontario. As we prepped the kids for a new school year in a new city, we knew we needed to make another change. Charlie, seven years old, was sleeping on a stack of not one but 4 thin mattresses. Daily, she complained of having trouble falling asleep and woke up groggy and miserable. We knew the start of the school year, was the perfect time to start her on a new sleep track.

Deciding to partner with Endy to try out their Canadian made mattresses and pillows was easy. Endy offered a twin mattress that would fit into her existing bed frame and 100-night trial period. If we didn’t love it, they would come and pick it back up no questions asked for a full refund.

What we didn’t expect was how much we would all love Charlie’s Endy mattress. I will admit to sneaking away during the day for a nap in her bed and often find Will, who is nine, asking for more sleepovers in Charlie’s room.

Here’s what you need to know if you or your kids need a better night’s sleep.

What We Loved

When researching Endy mattresses, I was quite sceptical of how good a mattress that came rolled up in a box could be. I remember the process of buying a king size mattress for my room which required moving trucks and over $5000. Even Will’s mattress, although newer, cost closer to $4000 instead of the $675 price tag on the Endy mattress. I was slightly perplexed when I opened the door to find the mailman easily carrying Charlie’s new mattress up my front steps. Endy mattresses come in a variety of sizes from Twin all the way to California King. You can check out all the sizes here.

Set Up

Endy provides a video that demonstrates how easy set up is. As an frequent furniture shopper, I can tell you that I was about as skeptical about these videos as I was the happy character in the IKEA assembly guide. Charlie and I got to work and in under 20 minutes we were officially done. The setup is really that easy. Open the box, unroll mattress, place on bed frame and you are done.

Size

I was really relieved to see that the mattress was true to size. The twin mattress fit easily into her twin frame. The height of the mattress is 10″ meaning you won’t require any extra layers or box springs.

Hypoallergenic

One thing that was really important to me was that Charlie’s mattress was hypoallergenic. As most of you know, we deal with allergies all the time at our house. I simply didn’t need an extra worry.

I must admit that I am that mom that sometimes doesn’t exactly get to putting sheets back on the bed before the kids fall asleep. It’s definitely comforting to know that the mattress cover was sewn in Montreal, is completely removable, is made of hypoallergenic stretch-knit and is microquilted for comfort.

3 Layer Mattress

When I first read about Endy mattresses, I took note of the 3 layers that make up the mattress. The top gel-infused layer is meant to help control body temperature throughout all four Canadian seasons. Seeing, there is already snow on the ground in Calgary, this is a definite plus. I noticed very quickly that Charlie stopped waking up really sweaty and stopped removing her blankets in the middle of the night. I am comforted by the fact that her body seems to be adjusting to temperature better which helps me sleep better too.

The middle layer serves as a transfer point between the comfort-focused top layer and the high density support bottom layer. The bottom layer keeps Charlie properly supported in the correct posture for sleep. Something every growing body needs.

Financing

The final thing we loved as a family was seeing the option for financing. Kids are expensive. The start of the school year means we are shelling out for everything from extra curricular activities to school uniforms. Having the option to make easy, manageable payments over a series of months makes it easier for families to make a change now and not have to wait until after Christmas.

What We Didn’t Love

Not surprisingly, we haven’t found anything not to love so far. I will keep this post updated to see if the passage of time affects our feelings but so far we are super impressed with the mattress itself.

Endy Pillow Review and Giveaway

Endy not only makes mattresses but makes what they call The Perfect Pillow. The pillow combines the support and breathable qualities of bamboo charcoal memory foam with the plush feeling of down. I can admit that the two pillows we tested are no longer in Charlie’s room. Instead, I noticed Will changed the Shopkins cover off of one and hide the pillow in a Star Wars pillowcase on his bed. I could only laugh, as I had done the same thing with the other pillow only a week before.

The coolest feature of the pillow in my opinion is that you can actually remove some of the memory foam to adjust the pillow to your liking. Endy provides a mesh pouch to store the extra filling in case someone else wants to use the pillow and fill it back up. What I notice most about the pillow is that it actually stays quite cool so I don’t find myself needing to flip it over in the middle of the night to stay comfortable.

A standard pillow retails for $80 Canadian with free shipping across the Canadian provinces. Endy has asked me to share the love and pass on the opportunity for one reader to win two standard pillows from Endy. Enter below before November 4, 2017. Canada only, excludes QC.

Endy

I truly believe in the importance of supporting Canadian companies. I was pleased to partner with Endy and even more pleased to see the quality of their products. The website provides quick customer service with a live chat feature and a real person on the other end who is waiting to answer any questions you may have.

The impact getting a new Endy mattress has made on Charlie is evident. We are dealing with less late nights and much better mornings. The only issue is now it is us asking to sleep in her bed and I think she’s getting annoyed.

DISCLAIMER: I partnered with Endy on this review. Endy provided us with the mattress and pillows so we could test them and give you our honest review. As always, opinions are completely my own (and Charlie’s).

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/back-to-school-endy-mattress-review/feed/1Boston Pizza Kids Cards: A Great Deal and A Great Way to Make a Change for Only $5http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/boston-pizza-kids-cards-a-great-deal-and-a-great-way-to-make-a-change-for-only-5/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/boston-pizza-kids-cards-a-great-deal-and-a-great-way-to-make-a-change-for-only-5/#respondThu, 07 Sep 2017 08:00:14 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=5692As a mom of Canadian kids, I love Boston Pizza. Whether it’s Will begging to stop in for a birthday Panookie or just seeing their logo running back and forth across local soccer and baseball fields, the restaurant holds a special place in our home. When Boston Pizza contacted me to tell me about their […]

]]>As a mom of Canadian kids, I love Boston Pizza. Whether it’s Will begging to stop in for a birthday Panookie or just seeing their logo running back and forth across local soccer and baseball fields, the restaurant holds a special place in our home. When Boston Pizza contacted me to tell me about their Boston Pizza Kids Card initiative, I knew I had to share it. Read on to find out more on how you can help make a big difference with as little as $5.

An Easy Way to Help Kids in Need

From now until October 2, 2016, you can help provide kids in needs with role models and mentorship to help them realize their full potential by simply purchasing a Boston Pizza Kids Card. A minimum donation of $5 translates to a full hour for a kid in need to spend some one on one time with a role model. Proceeds from Kids Cards allows the Boston Pizza Foundation Future Prospects to work with charity partners across Canada to provide children with someone in their community they can look up to for inspiration and guidance.

When you purchase a Kids Card either at Boston Pizza or online at BostonPizza.com, you receive 5 Free Kids Meal. A total value of $35. If you haven’t tried the Kids Meal yet, it’s the perfect night out for kids with a kid’s entrée (pepperoni pizza and sliders are some of our favourites), side like french fries or steamed veggies, a drink, dessert and a really fun Activity Pack that will keep them busy before and after eating.

Make sure to register your Kids Card online to get a bonus 6th Kid’s Meal. Just sign up for a MyBP account if you don’t already have one. The MyBP account is quite cool and will give you great offers and promotions based on previous orders. It’s free and easy to sign up by visiting BostonPizza.com or downloading the Boston Pizza app in the Apple iTunes store.

The Boston Pizza Foundation Future Prospects

For more than 25 years, Boston Pizza Foundation Future Prospects has worked with partner organizations to help give kids in need the role models they require to inspire them to realize their full potential and build a brighter future. Here are some incredible stats regarding the success of the program:

Each year, the Boston Pizza Foundation provides more than 200,000 hours of mentorship to kids in need; and

Boston Pizza Foundation Future Prospects has raised more than $24 million since its inception.

Big Brothers Big Sisters: Around for over 100 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been making a positive difference in the lives of our nation’s youth by developing and delivering a wide range of mentoring programs. Purchasing the Boston Pizza Kids Cards will aid the expansion of mentoring services into new communities and reach youth who do not currently have access to the programs.

JDRF Canada:Recognized as the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research, JDRF Canada’s goal is to progressively remove the impact from people’s lives through scientific advancements and policy influence until a world without T1D is achieved.BP’s partnership with JDRF Canada has helped fund the development of an artificial pancreas and the youth ambassador program which provides mentorship to young people living with T1D.

Kids Help Phone: Kids Help Phone is a leading Canadian charity offering the only national professional counselling service that kids can trust and access at any time. Kids Help Phone has added adult tools and resources and youth online content to their website, garnering more than 4,000 visits every month.

Live Different: Live Different’s mission is to inspire and embrace a lifestyle that cares about people, not ‘stuff’. Live Different has helped inspire over 1 million students in Canada, through high school motivational presentations, with the message that their life has value, that they have hope for their future and that they can make a positive difference in the world.

Rick Hansen Foundation: Rick Hansen Foundation’s mission is to inspire leaders, influencers and the public to join Rick Hansen in creating a global movement to remove barriers and liberate the amazing potential of people with disabilities. By partnering with BP, Rick Hansen Foundation has reached more youth through the Rick Hansen School Program so that over 500,000 students across the country each year can learn about inclusion for people with disabilities and how to make a difference in their local community.

Boston Pizza Kids Cards

Boston Pizza Kids Cards are on sale now until October 1, 2017. The donation makes a great gift for birthday parties or a special treat for your own kids. I’ll be picking some up this month for Stocking Stuffers this year. Head into any Boston Pizza location or click here to head over to BostonPizza.com to make a big difference now. Some advice from my son Will: Don’t forget to try The Panookie!

Pay It Forward Friday

Know a brand, company or organization doing awesome things that should be featured in Pay It Forward Friday? I’m always looking to help spread the word on ways we can help each other. Leave a comment on this post or email me directly at sarah@solomomtakesflight.com

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/boston-pizza-kids-cards-a-great-deal-and-a-great-way-to-make-a-change-for-only-5/feed/0VIP Tour at Universal Orlandohttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/vip-tour-at-universal-orlando-worth-every-penny/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/vip-tour-at-universal-orlando-worth-every-penny/#commentsWed, 06 Sep 2017 14:02:19 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=5718I have a pretty strict policy of not reviewing “VIP” or special treatment that other people may not receive. When a VIP Tour is offered to anyone who wants to pay for it? You bet I’m going to review it. Here’s what you need to know about the VIP Tour at Universal Orlando (Universal Orlando VIP […]

]]>I have a pretty strict policy of not reviewing “VIP” or special treatment that other people may not receive. When a VIP Tour is offered to anyone who wants to pay for it? You bet I’m going to review it. Here’s what you need to know about the VIP Tour at Universal Orlando (Universal Orlando VIP Experience). Everything from price break down to why its worth every penny.

VIP Tour at Universal Orlando

First things first. The Universal Orlando VIP Experience is open to everybody. You can book a tour for either Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure or both parks. To book a VIP tour at Universal Orlando all you need to do is call 1-866-346-9350.

Secondly, it is made very clear from the get-go that you will receive the VIP treatment you are paying for. This expressly includes front of the line access to the rides and attractions.

Lastly, it’s not necessarily cheap but its totally worth it.

VIP tour at Universal Orlando – Cost Break Down

Before I tell you anything more about the VIP tour, you need to know the cost breakdown. There are 3 tours to choose from: a 1-day 1-park tour, a 1-day 2-park tour and a private VIP experience. Admission to the park is not included in the cost of the tour.

The 1-day 1-park tour starts at $189.99 plus tax per person. The 1-day 2-park tour starts at $199.99 plus tax per person. A single park ticket will cost you $105 per adult and $100 per child. A park to park ticket will run you $155 per day per adult and $150 per child. You may be starting to add this all up but stay with me. If you are visiting for multiple days, the daily entry gets quite a bit cheaper. A 4 day ticket costs you only $60 per day.

Where I think the VIP tour really comes into play is when you consider the cost of the Express Pass. The Unlimited Express Pass is available for $84.99 a day. This gets you in a shorter line but does not get you to the front of the line. Add-in the fact that the VIP tour includes exclusive behind the scenes stops, valet parking, continental breakfast, reserved seating at shows and the Universal’s Superstar Parade and lunch (our group lunch totalled over $200) and you start to see the benefits piling up.

As an added bonus, once your tour ends, your tour pass works as an express pass for the remainder of the day.

Which Tour to Pick?

When choosing a tour, I would advise you choose the 1-day 2-park experience. The heart of the park is really the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You will want to experience the rides. Skip the lines for the Hogwarts Express. Find secret spell locations. Plus, dine in one of the iconic pubs like the Leaky Cauldron. In addition, your tour will take you to the major rides in each park seriously cutting the wait times.

The deal with the 1-day 2-park experience is that you will not be alone on your tour. Don’t fret as the maximum number of people in the tour is only 12. The tour route is pre-determined by your guide. You don’t worry about having to argue over where to go. I’ve now experienced the tour three times. Once with a group of women who were quite older and much less interested in roller coasters than me. Once with two families with kids ranging from 16 to 6. Finally with three families with 7 kids with differing interests.

When the tours started I was nervous. The reality is that tour guides know what they are doing. They will not make small children wait for hours while everyone rides the Hulk. They will pay attention to the vibe of the group. I found having added people on the tour made it a lot more fun in the end. Especially since our kids had other kids to play with.

Additionally, the tour guides ability to offer quick bathroom stops. Answer all questions while on the go. Pay special attention to each member of the group from smallest to grumpiest. Finally, they handle any questions or concerns in an instant.

When is the VIP Tour at Universal Orlando Worth The Cost?

As J.K. Rowling famously wrote; Always.

If you only have one day, this tour will cover everything you want to see. Still leaving you extra time to re-visit what you loved or still want to do. In my opinion, you are better off dedicating a day to the tour than spending three days in the park without it. I particularly love that there is no stress factor to the tour. Someone else is there to make all decisions. There is no rushing from ride to ride. You simply walk to the next one, learn some really cool facts and then walk on the ride.

I also think the VIP tour at Universal Orlando is worth it if you are visiting the parks for multiple days. My advice would be to do the tour on your first or second day in the parks. This is two-fold. The stress of seeing everything will be gone as soon as your tour is over. Secondly, you learn such cool facts about the rides after you ride them that you will want to go back and see if you can spot them on your own. After riding Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, we were told about how the track moves during certain parts of the ride and headed back in to see if we could spot the transitions once we knew. Even if you aren’t that into rides or engineering, it’s pretty fascinating stuff.

Kyle The Tour Guide

I would be remiss to finish this review without giving a shout-out to Kyle, our tour guide on 2 of 3 tours. Kyle and I have now toured together twice and both were fun and memorable experiences. When I saw Kyle for the second time, I wondered how he would adapt the tour knowing I had recently completed it. Turns out Kyle knows way more about the parks than can be shared in one day, so pretty much everything he said was new to me.

What I love most about the Universal Studio tour guides is that they are passionate people who clearly love the parks. Kyle, in fact, loves the park so much that when the Twister ride was finally dismantled, he bought one of the fake but life-sized cows who now lives with him in his apartment. Kyle didn’t seem bored, exhausted, or disgruntled in any way.

Instead, he exuded the exact attitude you look for in a group leader. He somehow had time to bond with each child and was able to connect with every one of them on different levels. Kyle made Charlie, the youngest on the tour, feel special about being too short to ride certain rides and made sure to surprise her with additional rides he knew she would love.

Kyle managed to never push anyone to ride anything while still providing support to those brave enough to take on some of the bigger rides. He knew how to calm riders’ nerves while being a reassuring friend to the kids who were tall enough but just not yet ready to attempt the larger coasters. In the end, no one felt bad about not riding and everyone had an incredible day.

Final Thoughts on VIP Tour at Universal Orlando

The final take is that the VIP Tour at Universal Orlando is truly a VIP Experience. You don’t need to worry about not getting to the front of lines and not having a memorable day. Once the stresses of planning, trying to beat lines, deciding where to eat, and meeting everyone’s needs are removed, a new experience unfolds before your very eyes. As a mother, I found I was enjoying our vacation without having to check a map or ride wait time app. I spent time instead experiencing the delights of the park with my family. I loved watching my kids’ reactions to things and holding their hands on new rides I hadn’t yet experienced like Skull Island: Reign of Kong.

JOIN US IN OUR LUXE FAMILY TRIPS FACEBOOK GROUP WHERE WELL-TRAVELED PARENTS AND LUXURY FAMILY TRAVEL BLOGGERS INSPIRE EACH OTHER.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/vip-tour-at-universal-orlando-worth-every-penny/feed/5What You Need to Know About Concierge Level on Disney Cruise Linehttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/need-know-concierge-level-disney-cruise-line/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/need-know-concierge-level-disney-cruise-line/#commentsFri, 18 Aug 2017 06:00:31 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=3466When booking a cruise with Disney Cruise Line, you will see the Concierge Level Suites. Noticeably, there is a distinct difference in price. So what is the Concierge Level on Disney Cruise Line and what do you need to know before booking? The Concierge Level promises signature Concierge services that start before you board the ship. […]

]]>When booking a cruise with Disney Cruise Line, you will see the Concierge Level Suites. Noticeably, there is a distinct difference in price. So what is the Concierge Level on Disney Cruise Line and what do you need to know before booking?

The Concierge Level promises signature Concierge services that start before you board the ship. These services continue throughout your vacation and beyond. Here’s our first-hand experience with the Concierge Level on Disney Cruise Line.

Pre-Arrival Services

Once you have booked a Concierge Level suite, you have access to pre-arrival Concierge services. This is huge. Starting 120 days prior to sailing, you have first access to bookings. This includes all excursions, restaurant reservations, spa appointments and cabanas for Castaway Cay. You can also provide a list of things you would like to do via email to the shoreside Concierges. You can email beginning 125 days before booking opens up and they will make the bookings for you.

In addition, you can call a specific toll free number that goes directly to a concierge. The concierge provides personalized assistance to you over the phone. I found this extremely helpful. I used the dedicated concierge email address to clarify questions I had regarding carry-ons and embarkation. I also emailed to book reservations for our group of 8 although I was the only person in a concierge suite.

Embarkation Day

When you book the Concierge Level, Disney promises the best service offered at sea. When you arrive at the Port, there is no separate section for Concierge Level guests until you get through security. After that, you get to skip some substantial line ups. To say there is a Concierge Lounge in the Port is a little of a stretch. The staff ushered us into a small room with nothing to do. We ended up joining the crowds for a chance to meet Captain Mickey before boarding.

Boarding the Ship

One of the benefits of the Concierge Level is that you get to board the ship first. Disney guarantees your room will be ready by 12:30 pm. We boarded and were whisked away to a private reception with free cocktails and food. We then were able to hit the pools immediately before anyone else was onboard.

On Board Concierge

The moment you board, your concierge introduces himself to you. Next, they introduce their backup partner who is available when your Concierge is on break. Glenn, our Concierge, was a great guy. He immediately clicked with my kids. His backup partner was equally amazing.

Glenn provided tickets to us for each Princess Meet and Greet without me asking. He was able to get tickets for all the other families we were traveling with. He also scraped together two cabanas on Castaway Cay that we had previously had not been able to book online as they were sold out.

When one of the children in our party got sick, it was Glenn to the rescue making sure we could rebook the popular Anna and Elsa meet and greet. He also provided a get-well soon basket full of ginger ale, crackers, and popcorn.

Concierge Amenities on the Disney Wonder

On the Disney Dream, you are given exclusive access to Concierge dedicated areas on the ship. On the Disney Wonder, no such spaces exist. Instead of the promised stylish, modern setting where guests can enjoy complimentary food and beverages, you have a limited number of events in a coffee lounge for an hour a day.

The newer ships have an exclusive Concierge-only sun deck which completely steps which alone makes it worth booking the concierge level on the Disney cruise.

Concierge Cocktail Hours and Character Meet and Greet

Although it was nice to be offered a free cocktail, the timing of the concierge events don’t always make sense. On the evening of the Pirate Night, in particular, the Concierge invited Concierge Level guests to Deck 10 to enjoy free cocktails and canapés. The big issue was that you could not actually see the Pirate Night show from the party. A much more reasonable solution would have been a small roped off portion of the top deck overlooking the party.

The Concierge also offers an exclusive meet and greet with one character to all Concierge Level guests. I was told that the character is usually Donald, Goofy or Pluto. This was the best part of our Concierge Level experience. Donald went from table to table and spent time with every family. He joked with the kids and was a pleasure to visit with. The Concierges made sure each family had had a lengthy visit with the duck.

In Room Refreshments

If you are not a concierge level guest, you need to pay for refreshments in your room. Bottled water is never free and sodas are only complimentary when you are in the restaurants or by the pool.

When we arrived, our Concierge asked for our preferences. Our Concierge filled our fridge exactly as requested and refilled daily. This was a huge perk.

Disney promises in room food deliveries for all Concierge Level guests. During our cruise, Disney delivered a fruit basket, chocolate-covered strawberries, a cheese plate and the most delicious plate of olives and nuts I have had in a while.

Castaway Cay

A big part of booking the Concierge Level is having access to the Cabanas on Castaway Cay. The sell out quickly but Disney reserves some for Concierge Level Guests.

Is Concierge Level on Disney Cruise Line Worth the Cost?

Yes. Especially if you are traveling on the newer Disney ships (the Dream and Fantasy). Having Glenn on a board changed our whole cruise. When anything happened Glenn quickly explained the situation at hand. He always reminded me of our planned activities and Meet and Greets so we didn’t miss them. He was a pleasure to have around. I can’t imagine the cruise without his help and suggestions. Sometimes when I’m at home and something goes wrong, I still find myself looking around for Glenn.

JOIN US IN OUR LUXE FAMILY TRIPS FACEBOOK GROUP WHERE WELL-TRAVELED PARENTS AND LUXURY FAMILY TRAVEL BLOGGERS INSPIRE EACH OTHER.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/need-know-concierge-level-disney-cruise-line/feed/15Best Volcano Bay Tips + Volcano Bay Cabanashttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/best-tried-and-tested-volcano-bay-tips-volcano-bay-cabanas/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/best-tried-and-tested-volcano-bay-tips-volcano-bay-cabanas/#commentsTue, 15 Aug 2017 12:54:14 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6215Universal Orlando Resort has opened a brand new water park called Volcano Bay. I hit the park with 7 kids ranging in age from 7 to 16 to give you all the best tried and tested Volcano Bay tips. Plus, I rented a cabana to tell you what you need to know about the Volcano […]

]]>Universal Orlando Resort has opened a brand new water park called Volcano Bay. I hit the park with 7 kids ranging in age from 7 to 16 to give you all the best tried and tested Volcano Bay tips. Plus, I rented a cabana to tell you what you need to know about the Volcano Bay cabanas. Ready to head to the park? Don’t go without reading this first.

8 Best Tried and Tested Volcano Bay Tips

1. Hang on Tight to Your TapuTapu

A TapuTapu is a wearable band that lets you virtually stand in line for a ride while you explore the park. The good – it works. The bad – you can only sign up for one ride at once and the bracelets are easy to lose. Hilariously, the teens in our group lost them much quicker than the smaller kids.

If you lose your TapuTapu, you can get a new one for free by showing your park ticket. When entering the park, make sure to write each family member’s name on their specific ticket to make the process of replacing the TapuTapu easier. You won’t lose your place in line but the process can take a while as a lot of people find that the TapuTapus fall off.

I rode over 14 rides and spent hours in the lazy and active rivers without losing mine or my daughter’s which I chose to wear.

Going forward it looks like Universal will be modifying the design to make the bands more secure but in the meantime hold on tight to yours!

2. Don’t Wait in the Virtual Line for Any of the Large Drops with Kids Under 12

Volcano Bay offers some of the best and biggest waterslides in the world. Everyone walks in the park points at the volcano and says “I want to do that”. The reality is that the 3 major slides from the top of the volcano are terrifying. As a coaster fanatic, I had to convince myself to try them to satisfy my pride while impressing my kids.

The line for the Ko’okiri Body Plunge can get quite long. Save some time by walking your kids half way up the steps to see if they will even do it. My Hulk coaster riding kids started shaking around the 4th flight of stairs. The slide features a 70-degree fall through a drop door and takes 7 seconds start to finish. It’s 125 feet high.

By 4 o’clock on the day we visited, the lines for all the drop slides were less than an hour wait and after 7 pm, they were less than 20 minutes (meaning you could walk right on).

3. Know the Difference Between the Active and Lazy River

This is a big one if you have small kids. There are two rivers on the property and they are not very well signed. We entered the fearless river unknowingly and it was a disaster. If you have kids under 10, make sure they only enter this river with one on one supervision. Entering and exiting the river through the crowd is the hardest part. The remainder of the river is incredibly fun. If you wait until after 4 pm, the river is much less busy. It becomes easier to handle more than one child at a time. We spent hours in the fearless river as the crowds filed out of the park near dinner time.

4. Go Early and/or Stay Late

Volcano Bay is very popular. It’s not only brand new, it’s frankly the best water park I’ve ever seen and one of the best amusement parks. Don’t expect to see it without crowds for a few years if ever. Still, most people don’t want to get wet too early or too late at night.

The key to Volcano Bay and the best of my Volcano Bay tips is to go closer to 3 pm and stay until closing. On-site resort guests of Universal Orlando are given early access to the park and it is worth getting up early to get a jump on the free seating and shorter lines. Check out 12 amazing reasons to stay at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel if you are looking to stay on property.

Going in the afternoon and staying late has the same effect. We expected to spend 3-4 hours at the park and were in the park for over 10 hours. We were able to ride multiple rides without a wait from 7 pm until closing.

5. Don’t Confuse the Turtle and the Whale

Volcano Bay is Polynesian themed and the names of the attractions can be confusing. The most confusing of the attractions are the two ika Moana slides; the Honu (turtle) and the ika Moana (whale). To be clear, the turtle slide is BLUE and the whale slide is GREEN. They are right next to each other. To add to the confusion, the signs for the Honu and ika Moana are currently reversed. The Honu sign says the slide is for 4 riders which is actually the ride information for the ika Moana. The Honu actually seats up to 5 riders. Both are fun so riding either is worth it but we had ongoing arguments within our group about whether we were waiting to ride the blue or green slide. I rode the Honu 6 times and frankly would have happily spent the day just riding this one awesome attraction.

6. Use Your TapuTapu to Experience the Krakatau Aqua Coaster

Most people I spoke to listed the Krakatau Aqua Coaster as the best ride in the park. It is worth monitoring the wait time to ride the Krakatau more than once. Most of the other slides are easy to ride at least once, so if you are only going to do one long wait, you should pick the Krakatau. We canceled some of our other wait times when the wait time for the Krakatau dropped to under 60 minutes. The wait time was often less than the stated wait and we rode the Krakatau 4 times in 1 day.

7. Take Time to Explore and Play

While the TapuTapu can be a little confusing, the concept is genius. Basically, you can explore the entire park in the time you would normally be standing in a line. We played in the many pools and rivers, spent time relaxing and then headed to the rides which never had more than a 10-minute wait in the actual stand in line portion of the line.

The TapuTapu makes the park much more manageable with kids. Don’t get frustrated when you first begin using it. We found there was always a slide or two with less than a 20-minute wait which meant you could ride without using your TapuTapu. While you needed to tap into the ride, it did not affect your wait time or bump you out of line for your next ride. We were able to ride about 6 rides by simply walking up to the ride.

Once you figure out the system, you’ll appreciate having the time to feed your kids, put up your feet and even enjoy a Polynesian cocktail. You have 1 hour from the time your TapuTapu says “Ride Now” to get in line, don’t stress about rushing through your meal to get there immediately.

8. There is no Volcano Bay Express Pass

This is big. There is no Volcano Bay Express Pass. Despite what Google may tell you. Currently, there are no dedicated lines within the park for a Volcano Bay Express Pass. No matter how hard you look, you cannot purchase a Volcano Bay Express Pass. Trust me, before heading to Volcano Bay, I tried. The truth is with the TapuTapu you don’t necessarily need it but it would be an amazing add-on for people who don’t want to spend a whole day in one park.

Volcano Bay Cabanas

The best way to experience Volcano Bay is with the Volcano Bay cabanas. The bigger your group, the better the deal. The following review talks about the positives and negatives of our experience. I want to be clear that despite some small issues that need to be improved, I will still book a cabana every time I visit Volcano Bay. Without it, I believe we would not have been able to stay in the park as long as we did. I also think the cabana helped us schedule our day better while being far less stressed out.

Here is exactly what you need to know before booking Volcano Bay cabanas.

1. Volcano Bay Cabana Rental

It is not easy to rent Volcano Bay cabanas. The reason for this is two-fold. First, there is mass confusion as to when you are allowed to book a cabana. Second, they are very limited in numbers. Currently, you can call (877) 489-8068 to book a Volcano Bay Cabana through September 30, 2017. You may have to call more than once to get the booking completed.

2. Single Cabana Units versus Family Suite Cabanas

Before even bothering to consider a family suite cabana at Volcano Bay, know that there are only 2 in the whole park. The difference between a single cabana unit versus a family suite cabana is simply size. For a little extra money, you can fit far more people (up to 16) in a family suite cabana versus 6 in a single cabana unit.

If you cannot get a family suite cabana consider booking two single cabana units on top of each other or next to each other for virtually the same experience. The only issue is that booking two single cabanas will be almost double the price of booking a family cabana.

3. Volcano Bay Cabana Pricing

Single cabana Units start at $159.99 a day plus tax. Family Suite cabanas start at $299.99 plus tax a day. Do not expect that to be the actual cost of your cabana. Single cabana units are more likely to cost upwards of $449.99 a day and family units are priced at over $649.99 a day. The cost of the cabana also depends on location and whether you would like an upper or lower unit. We had one of each. I would recommend the lower cabana as they are more shaded and you are better able to supervise your kids.

4. Benefits of Volcano Bay Cabanas

There are several benefits to booking the Volcano Bay cabanas. Primarily, it is the perfect home base for your day. The cabana comes with water, towels and a large locker. You not only have plenty of seating in your cabana but are allowed to save some of the free seating in front of your cabana for sun tanning.

Another major benefit is that you can schedule your rides on your TapuTapu from your cabana instead of needing to walk to the individual ride. This saved enormous amounts of time and energy.

Each cabana comes with an attendant whose job is to refresh towels and help keep your cabana clean. You are also assigned a server who serves drinks and food.

5. Downfalls of Volcano Bay Cabanas

Volcano Bay is a brand new park and frankly, the Volcano Bay cabanas are currently not very well run. The structure itself is cool, shaded and comfortable. If that’s enough for you, I would feel comfortable advising you to book one.

Where we experienced problems was with the cabana service. Our fruit basket was laid out hours before we arrived and set out in the sun. Most of the baked goods were unedible. We ran out of water around 3 pm and it was not replenished. While we had a number of towels, we were not able to trade-in for dry ones during the day.

The general wait time for a drink in our cabana ranged from 45-minutes to over an hour and a half. Some of our food took upwards of 2 hours to arrive. In one case, we were informed after a 2-hour wait for sushi, they no longer had any in the park.

The final issue is that you check into your pre-paid cabana, you need to wait in the same line as everyone booking any paid seating, renting towels and needing new TapuTapus. Thus, your cabana check-in can be over 45 minutes to an hour, just to be told which cabana is yours.

The quick fix is for Universal to make a separate line for cabana and premium seating check-ins. Hopefully, this will happen soon.

6. Should You Rent a Volcano Bay Cabana

I would say yes. The cabanas do not cost much more than the premium seating which is two shaded seats with a smaller locker. We were able to stay in the park for hours as we had plenty of shade and a place to rest.

I hope Universal quickly works out the service kinks because the cabanas themselves are amazing.

Best Volcano Bay Tips + Volcano Bay Cabanas

Volcano Bay is unparalleled as a water park. Universal wanted to build a third park and the world’s first water theme park. I truly believe they have outdone themselves. While it may be frustrating while the kinks are worked out, you should not hesitate to head to Volcano Bay. Take it from me, ride the Krakatau Aqua Coaster early because you are going to want to ride it often.

Due to the fact that no cameras are allowed on the rides, the ride photos and TapuTapu photos in the post were kindly provided by and are credited to Universal Orlando Resort. I was a guest of Universal Orlando Resort.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/best-tried-and-tested-volcano-bay-tips-volcano-bay-cabanas/feed/1How to Find a Babysitter While on Vacationhttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/guide-to-finding-babysitters-online/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/guide-to-finding-babysitters-online/#commentsMon, 14 Aug 2017 13:15:53 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=5403When you are traveling with your kids, you may be wondering about finding babysitters online. I’ve tried a number of services and can tell you the process is not always easy. From Care.com to services like Sitters In A Second, Inc., I’ve had a range of success. Here are my tips for how to find […]

]]>When you are traveling with your kids, you may be wondering about finding babysitters online. I’ve tried a number of services and can tell you the process is not always easy. From Care.com to services like Sitters In A Second, Inc., I’ve had a range of success. Here are my tips for how to find a babysitter while on vacation.

Sitters In A Second, Inc.

The best company model I have found for hiring a babysitter while on vacation is Sitters In A Second, Inc. In business since 1994, Sitters in A Second, Inc. is currently in 10 cities throughout California and Florida. Most recently, they’ve expanded to Naples, Florida. I’ve used them 4 times in the past two years.

Where this company differs is in their hiring practices. Each babysitter is professionally screened through their unique screening process. The difference is that the screening doesn’t stop there. Instead, the company constantly checks in on their sitters and plans events where company leaders and sitters all spend time together.

Where the company really excels is in their selection process. They allow parents to request sitters who will be a perfect fit for their kids. Whether you need someone with experience in something like Autism or prefer a sitter who is a strong swimmer.

I’ve always felt incredibly comfortable leaving my kids in each sitter’s hands and have used 4 different sitters. Each sitter was a skilled swimmer and my kids loved each of them. I was a little nervous about the kids entering a lazy river with our last sitter. After watching her head into the water with them and seeing how attentive she was, I completely relaxed. When I returned back to the room, the kids were disappointed to see me and asked if I could come back a little later. Our room was filled with crafts and drawings and most importantly the television and all electronics were still turned off.

Bottom Line: While Sitters in A Second, Inc. may not be in every location, I always check their website after booking a trip to see if they will be available to help out.

Care.Com

This is a service I’ve tried a few times in a few cities with a success rate of 0%. Care.com works by trying to match you with caregivers in the area you live or the area you are visiting.

Let’s start with the facts. The fees to join Care.com are pretty hefty if you are using the service sporadically to find a babysitter while on vacation. Care.com also absolves itself of all responsibility for sitters before you even hire them. Essentially, you are responsible for making the right choice. Care.com does not verify the accuracy of the information caregivers post on the site. You can find out more in the safety section of their site.

While I’ve searched in a few cities and paid the fees a few times, I’ve never had any success with finding a sitter. Either the people who responded seemed off the wall crazy or something else was a little off for my liking. A few times, I simply had no responses at all.

Bottom line: Proceed with caution.

Hotel Kids Clubs

There are a lot of hotels out there with really great kids clubs. Luxury chains like the Four Seasons tend to have incredible options for childcare. I find the more expensive the hotel, the more likely the kids club is included in your stay. Still, whether you have booked a 3-star resort or something like Beaches family resorts, you will want to know what to look for in a hotel kids club. My first check is general cleanliness. If the club isn’t visually clean, there are probably other issues at play. Next, I check the sitter to child ratio. Sure it may be great when there are 2 kids but how do the handle 10+? After that, I ask about electronic usage. Although I don’t mind a movie night, I don’t like to pay for kids clubs that rely heavily on electronics to entertain my kids. Bonus points go to hotels who have the capacity to explore the property with the kids.

Bottom Line: Try and find hotels with an all-inclusive kids club. It’s a great perk.

In Hotel Care

Hiring a babysitter at a hotel can be as easy as speaking to the hotel staff or concierge if there is one. Big resorts tend to have one company they stick to. Local hotels may have staff who will offer their services. In Ireland, I was able to hire a babysitter who was a nanny in the past and now worked at the front desk of the hotel during the day. After her shift, she simply came upstairs and watched the kids for a few hours. The plus to finding a sitter this way is that they are employed by and known to the hotel. The fallbacks are that this type of sitter is usually based entirely on luck and you have no idea what hiring process they went through to work at the hotel.

Bottom Line: Doesn’t hurt to ask.

How to Find a Babysitter While on Vacation

Leaving your kids in someone else’s hands is never easy. The key takeaway to how to find a babysitter while on vacation is to check the vetting process the sitters go through. Simple background checks and interviewing processes help weed out those who may not have the best intentions or the skills required to ensure your children’s safety. As someone who has gone through the process many times, I can tell you there are great sitters out there waiting to give you a much-deserved break.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/guide-to-finding-babysitters-online/feed/1New Nintendo 2DS XL Giveaway!http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/2ds-xl-giveaway/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/2ds-xl-giveaway/#commentsWed, 02 Aug 2017 17:55:34 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6184It’s summer. Are your kids driving you up the wall yet? My secret to getting a little me-time is letting the kids have some play time on their favourite new consoles from Nintendo of Canada. I wanted to share with you a quick review of the new Nintendo Switch and New Nintendo 2DS XL plus give […]

]]>It’s summer. Are your kids driving you up the wall yet? My secret to getting a little me-time is letting the kids have some play time on their favourite new consoles from Nintendo of Canada. I wanted to share with you a quick review of the new Nintendo Switch and New Nintendo 2DS XL plus give you the chance to enter our New Nintendo 2DS XL giveaway!

Nintendo Switch

We picked up the Nintendo Switch on the day it was released. It was love at first plug-in. We can’t go anywhere without people asking what it is. The kids enthusiastically answer that it’s the new Nintendo Switch. I also know it as a lifeline when traveling and in other situations.

The Nintendo Switch is essentially an at home console that also works on the go. No unplugging. Just pull out the portable screen and go. The portable portion has a kick stand that we have used to play as a family on airport floors, hospital beds and even on a highway that was closed due to an accident for a grueling 6 hours.

New Nintendo 2DS XL

The Nintendo Switch isn’t the only new console Nintendo of Canada has recently released. In fact, their newest release is the New Nintendo 2DS XL and you are going to love it. We’ve been testing it out for about a week and my kids can’t say enough about it. Seriously, they don’t stop talking.

So what is it? The New Nintendo 2DS XL is a modern and sharp version of its predecessors the Nintendo 2Ds and 3DS. What’s the difference? The 3D feature is gone. In reality, most kids won’t notice. Due to the fact, Charlie is 7, I have yet to let her turn on the 3D function on a 3DS. 3D is not recommended for kids 6 and under.

Beyond the missing 3D function, the New Nintendo 2DS XL is actually much sleeker than earlier models. It now folds closed like the 3DS family making it easier to pack and store. The console has some noticeable changes including an extra analog controller and two additional Z buttons. It is also compatible with Amiibos something I appreciate as the owner of over 50 Amiibos. As an extra bonus, it plays all 3DS games and most DS games. With the release of the New Nintendo 2DS XL, Nintendo has also released two awesome new games: Hey! Pikmin and Miitopia. Both games have been a huge hit at our house with Charlie spending her entire electronic time conquering Miitopia while Will is taking on Hey! Pikmin. Both games are extremely kid-friendly and both are included in our New Nintendo 2DS XL giveaway.

New Nintendo 2DS XL Giveaway

Ready to win? Enter below before September 9, 2017. Canada only excludes Quebec.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/2ds-xl-giveaway/feed/94The Ultimate Guide To Whistler With Kidshttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/ultimate-guide-whistler-kids/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/ultimate-guide-whistler-kids/#respondMon, 17 Jul 2017 16:17:27 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6146Only an hour and 30-minute drive from Vancouver, lies the town of Whistler, British Columbia. Home to Whistler-Blackcomb ski resort, it’s the ultimate destination for families year round. The village welcomes kids with a large playground, many family-friendly restaurants and an incredible number of age-appropriate activities. Here is what you need to know to book […]

]]>Only an hour and 30-minute drive from Vancouver, lies the town of Whistler, British Columbia. Home to Whistler-Blackcomb ski resort, it’s the ultimate destination for families year round. The village welcomes kids with a large playground, many family-friendly restaurants and an incredible number of age-appropriate activities. Here is what you need to know to book an incredible vacation to Whistler with kids including why you should book a stay with Wyndham Vacation Rentals.

Getting to Whistler

Whistler is on Canada’s West Coast. The journey from Vancouver on the Sea to Sky Highway is stunning. Families can choose to fly into Vancouver International Airport, Seattle or Bellingham and then transfer to Whistler. There are plenty of shuttle buses and private vehicle charters available to whisk your family to the mountain. We drove from Calgary, Alberta to Whistler through a number of national parks. Every twist and turn of the road revealed a stunning view.

Once in Whistler, you most likely will not require a vehicle unless you would like to explore the surrounding areas. Staying at Cascade Lodge by ResortQuest Whistler, through Wyndham Vacation Rentals, we parked the car and didn’t use it for our entire four-day stay.

Navigating Whistler with kids is quite easy. The village is large but completely walkable and there are numerous gondolas available to shuttle you up and down the mountain. Bikes are welcome in Whistler but must be walked within the pedestrian streets of the village.

Where to Stay

Planning the perfect escape to Whistler with kids starts with finding a family-friendly place to stay. With plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to choose from, booking your stay isn’t always easy. I would recommend you book a stay in Whistler village. This will give you the ability to walk to dinner, activities and for a famous scoop of Cows ice cream direct from Prince Edward Island, Canada.

As my kids get older, I am finding it easier to stay in vacation rentals than hotels. Charlie, my daughter, has allergies and having a kitchen in the room saves us time, money and a lot of stress. Vacation rentals also offer plenty of space for our trio to spread out and the comforts of home like bathtubs and laundry.

We chose to stay with Wyndham Vacation Rentals at Cascade Lodge. We not only had a gorgeous two bedroom suite but we had an incredible view of Whistler Mountain. The room had a patio where we ate dinner and watched the gondolas. The actual units at Cascade Lodge are individually owned but managed and maintained by Wyndham Vacation Rentals. Ours was in excellent condition and clean as a whistle.

The property itself had a large pool with two hot tubs, a well-maintained fitness center, and secure underground parking. We loved wrapping up our evenings with a late-night swim and hot tub.

July is National Vacation Rental Month and a perfect time to plan your own vacation rental escape. Wyndham Vacation Rentals recently launched BeVacationReady.com to help travelers shake off the stress and enjoy family travel once more. Personally, I love the individual destination itineraries that lay out everything from where to eat to which adventures are perfect for kids. Check out this Whistler itinerary for more information on tackling Whistler with kids.

Things to Do in Whistler With Kids

Peak 2 Peak Gondola

The Peak 2 Peak Gondola stretches from the top of Whistler Mountain to the top of Blackcomb Mountain. It is the world’s longest and highest gondola stretching across an unsupported span of over 3 km and traveling 1,427ft above the valley floor. More importantly, your kids are going to love it. The 11-minute trip which spans almost 5 KM allows you to explore both mountain tops in a day. I highly recommend purchasing your passes for the gondola 48 hours in advance to take advantage of special discounts.

Family Adventure Zone

A visit to Whistler with kids isn’t complete until you’ve experienced the Family Adventure Zone. Highlights include the West Coaster mountain slide, bungee trampoline, and ropes course. We spent an entire afternoon enjoying the activities.

Wander the Village

Whistler Village offers plenty for families including nightly busking entertainers. We loved walking around at night and watching the performances before heading for some play time at the playground.

Hike Blackcomb Mountain

While you’ll find plenty of hiking in Whistler, a new trail has opened which is still relatively unknown. Unlike the other trails at the top of the mountain, the lower Blackcomb trail allows you to head up or down a lower section of the mountain. It is a much different hike than the others and has a high possibility of bear sightings. I recommend the hike for kids older than 7. You can access the trail from the bottom of Blackcomb Mountain by the Family Adventure Zone or if you prefer to hike down from the top of Wizard Express. For a longer and more challenging hike, you can begin from the top of the Solar Coaster Express.

Stay alert for bears and remember to never approach them and back away silently if you do come upon one. We met one bear just off the trail who didn’t seem bothered by our presence. Before beginning a hike, I always attach bear bells to both my kids to ensure we don’t sneak up on these magnificent animals.

Play in the Snow

Make sure while in Whistler to take some time to let your kids play in the summer snow.

The options of outdoor activities in Whistler with kids are virtually endless. Check out the Whistler Itinerary for more suggestions like berry picking and water rafting.

Where to Eat

Whistler offers so many amazing restaurant choices for families Here are our picks for the best food options in Whistler with kids.

Earls

Located in the center of Whistler village with a large patio, Earls is the perfect spot for dinner or brunch. The restaurant offers a small kids menu of freshly prepared dishes or you can share from their delicious appetizer picks. My kids love the crispy ribs, avocado super toast and Italian style pan bread. My go-to is the Earls Sante Fe Chicken Salad. It’s a modern spot with great food where your kids will be welcome.

Caramba! Restaurant

Another great choice when dining in Whistler with kids is Caramba! Restaurant. Offering Italian classics and delicious fish and steak options, Caramba! caters well to families. Kids are invited to sit at the bar and play with pizza dough while watching chefs prepare their dinner. Signature dishes include wood fired pizza, braised meatballs, and Angus rib eye.

Crepe Montagne

You shouldn’t visit Whistler with kids without making a stop at Crepe Montagne. This classic French creperie is definitely one of my kids’ favourite places to eat. Offering every type of crepe known to man, chocolate fondue, and even a gluten-free menu, this is a perfect place to treat your kids after a long hike.

Visiting Whistler with Kids

Whistler, British Columbia is truly one of my favourite spots in Canada. The family-friendly village excels at welcoming families and kids of all ages. Once every summer, Whistler also hosts the Whistler Children’s Festival that brings, even more, life to the village. I hope you will enjoy Whistler as much as I do.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/ultimate-guide-whistler-kids/feed/025 Places in Canada Every Family Should Visit – Book Reviewhttp://solomomtakesflight.com/moms-corner/25-places-canada-every-family-visit-book-review/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/moms-corner/25-places-canada-every-family-visit-book-review/#respondSun, 25 Jun 2017 15:02:51 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6129As you know by now, I am a proud Canadian. As a traveler, I have been privileged to visit several different countries but to me Canada is home. Recently, fellow travel blogger Jody Robbins asked me to check our her new book 25 Places in Canada Every Family Should Visit. This review will let you know […]

]]>As you know by now, I am a proud Canadian. As a traveler, I have been privileged to visit several different countries but to me Canada is home. Recently, fellow travel blogger Jody Robbins asked me to check our her new book 25 Places in Canada Every Family Should Visit. This review will let you know why it’s a great buy or gift for any family who loves to travel.

25 Places in Canada Every Family Should Visit By Jody Robbins

As much as I love the Internet, I am a book girl. I have never made the jump to an e-reader and frankly don’t intend to. Books are an escape for me. 25 Places in Canada Every Family Should Visit is the perfect example. The book not only lists some of my favourite Canadian destinations, it provides images to help you plan your dream Canadian adventure. Wih each destination, you’ll even find tips on where to eat, sleep and how to get around using public transportation.

What I love most about this book is the tone that resonates within every page. Jody Robbins clearly loves travel and loves Canada. This book is her way of sharing those loves with the world. Through it, she is encouraging families from places near and far to truly experience the land she and I call home.

Which 25 Places are Tops in Canada for Families?

While expected places like Toronto, Niagara Falls and Quebec City to make the list, there are also a few hidden gems to learn about. Ever heard of Saguenay Fjord? Me neither, but now I am planning an adventure to the 105 Kilometre inlet that is home to whales, wolves and caribou.

Why Travel Canada Now?

This summer, Canada is celebrating its 150th anniversary through Canada 150. Not only is admission to Canada’s National Parks free but cities across the country are hosting epic events to help celebrate. With the Canadian dollar sitting lower than the U.S. dollar, it’s even easier for our North American neighbours to come explore.

What Tops the 25 Places in Canada Every Family Should Visit?

While Jody Robbins does not play favourites in her book, I will. My new home town of Calgary is one of my favourite places to recommend to families. A foodie city that is full of energy welcomes you with incredible offerings for families like the Brainasium outdoor playground at the Telus Spark science centre. After exploring the city, head to Banff National Park to see the best of the Canadian Rockies or to Drumheller and Dinosaur Provincial Park to explore the badlands. Each of these areas are recommended by Robbins and clearly also hold a place in her heart as places worth exploring.

Want to head East? Robbins recommends incredible spots like New Brunswick’s Bay of Fundy, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and Western Newfoundland. While I’ve explored these places without my kids, a read of this book has convinced me it’s probably time to head back with them in tow.

Travel Tips

25 Places in Canada Every Family Should Visit concludes with a list of travel tips from packing like a pro to saving money. These are great for families who are ready to hit the road but a little nervous of whats to come. I found that even with how much we travel the tips were a perfect read before we begin our summer travels to British Columbia and the United States.

25 Places in Canada Every Family Should Visit

Whether you are a seasoned family traveler or ready to plan some new adventures, 25 Places in Canada Every Family Should Visit By Jody Robbins is a great read. Her love of travel is inspiring and her recommendations will help you and your kids get excited for your next Canadian adventure!

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/moms-corner/25-places-canada-every-family-visit-book-review/feed/0The Best Luxury Family Resorts in Oahu, Hawaiihttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/the-best-luxury-family-resorts-in-oahu-hawaii/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/the-best-luxury-family-resorts-in-oahu-hawaii/#commentsMon, 29 May 2017 22:25:42 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6102Over the past few years, I have fallen head over heals in love with Oahu, Hawaii. From the gorgeous beaches of Waikiki to the North Shore, Oahu offers amazing options for families looking for luxury stays. Here are the best luxury family resorts in Oahu, Hawaii. Best Luxury Family Resorts in Waikiki Sheraton Waikiki Located […]

]]>Over the past few years, I have fallen head over heals in love with Oahu, Hawaii. From the gorgeous beaches of Waikiki to the North Shore, Oahu offers amazing options for families looking for luxury stays. Here are the best luxury family resorts in Oahu, Hawaii.

Best Luxury Family Resorts in Waikiki

Sheraton Waikiki

Located in the heart of Waikiki, the Sheraton Waikiki is the perfect mix of luxury and family resort. Families will love the Helumoa pool that overlooks the ocean. The pool is made up of two separate freshwater pools joined by a slide. There is also a large water slide and plenty of lifeguards on site. For smaller kids, there is an interactive fountain and a shallow kiddie pool.

The Sheraton also provides families with plenty of hotel room options. We stayed in an oceanview room which surprisingly had 3 Queen beds. The layout was perfect for families with 2 to 4 children.

Book a club room for access to the incredible Leahi Club. The lounge sits on the 30th floor of the hotel and has amazing views of both Waikiki Beach and Diamond Crater. Breakfast consists of plenty of offerings and each night appetizers and wine are laid out for your enjoyment.

Childcare is available from 9am-6pm daily for children 3 months to 12 years of age. In-room babysitting is also offered.

Halekulani

If there is one hotel in Waikiki to experience the ultimate in luxury it is the Halekulani. Located next door to the Sheraton Waikiki, the Halekulani is an oasis for families looking for a luxury stay. What is most striking about the hotel is the vibe. Somehow walking through its doors, it feels as though you leave Waikiki and enter a private island paradise.

Each night House Without A Key welcomes guests for its nightly show. A 3 member band sings Hawaiian classics joined by Miss Hawaii winners who perform traditional hula dances. The hotel offers some of the best dining in Waikiki from casual to the luxe La Mer.

This summer, the Halekulani joins the ranks of the best luxury family hotels in Oahu, Hawaii by offering a kids club. The club is available to kids 5-12 at the cost of $60 a day per child which includes lunch and all activity entrance fees. The club will run on weekdays from June 26 to September 1. Parents can drop their children off at the kids club for daily care that will include hands-on activities like fishing and surf lessons as well as excursions to places like the science center.

Best Luxury Family Resorts in Ko Olina

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

There is no hotel in Hawaii quite like Aulani. Although, less luxury than some of the others on this list, you can still enjoy some of the best Hawaii has to offer in a family-friendly setting. Aulani welcomes families with various sized suites and plenty of kid-friendly fun. The waterpark is the largest on Oahu and even includes a fish tank for snorkeling. Aulani’s onsite Luau is perfect for kids of all ages.

Aulani’s strengths lie in its Hawaiian storytelling, the inclusion of Moana and other Disney characters, and Aunty’s Beach House kids camp. Aunty’s Beach House offers supervised fun for kids 3-12. Most activities are free with a few add-on experiences available at a cost.

Four Seasons Oahu

The most recent addition to the best luxury family resorts in Oahu is the Four Seasons. Be prepared to be blown away by the rooms at this incredible hotel. Sharing a beach with Aulani, the Four Seasons is the quieter and more traditionally luxurious offering in Ko Olina. The property comes complete with fine dining, a small family pool filled with toys and an adults-only quiet pool. Each night, local artists perform at the main pool. Guests can enjoy the performances from several dining spots and the ocean-view balconies.

The Four Seasons offers Kids For All Seasons, a complimentary camp for kids 5-12. Mine enjoyed exploring the ocean with the camp as well as doing local crafts. They were lucky enough to even spot some resident sea turtles out for an early morning swim.

Best Luxury Family Resort On the North Shore

Families looking for luxury on the North Shore need not look further than Turtle Bay Resort. Constructed in a manner that the entire hotel has a beach view, Turtle Bay is home to a waterpark, local surfing and plenty of snorkeling.

This is the only luxury family resort on our list that does not offer childcare. Don’t worry as there are plenty of activities to enjoy as a family including stand-up paddleboarding, surfing lessons, and hiking. While on the North Shore, schedule a day at the Polynesian Cultural Center, one of Oahu’s top ranked tourist destinations.

The Best Luxury Family Resorts in Oahu

Booking any hotel on our list of the best luxury family resorts in Oahu will ensure you have great accommodations for your next Hawaiian adventure. Not looking for a luxury stay? Check out the best hotels in Oahu for families.

JOIN US IN OUR LUXE FAMILY TRIPS FACEBOOK GROUP WHERE WELL-TRAVELED PARENTS AND LUXURY FAMILY TRAVEL BLOGGERS INSPIRE EACH OTHER.

Pin Image Courtesy of Halekulani Hotel.

Photos included in this posts were taken with the Panasonic Lumix G85. To learn more click here.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/the-best-luxury-family-resorts-in-oahu-hawaii/feed/1A Guide to Niagara Peninsula Wine Countryhttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/a-guide-to-niagara-peninsula-wine-country/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/a-guide-to-niagara-peninsula-wine-country/#commentsTue, 23 May 2017 06:04:29 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=5355I have two favourite things. Wine and travel. When I can, I try to combine the two for epic weekends spent enjoying some of the world’s best wines. Luckily, some of my most loved wineries are only a short drive away in the Niagara Peninsula wine country. People often ask me about my go-to wineries […]

]]>I have two favourite things. Wine and travel. When I can, I try to combine the two for epic weekends spent enjoying some of the world’s best wines. Luckily, some of my most loved wineries are only a short drive away in the Niagara Peninsula wine country. People often ask me about my go-to wineries and the truth is depending on the time of year and how I feel that day, my favourites shift and change like the seasons. Luckily for me, Wine Country Ontario has just released its Travel Guide 2017 for Prince Edward County, Lake Erie North Shore, the Emerging Regions, the Niagara Escarpment & Twenty Valley and my home away from home, Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Travel Guide 2017

To pick up your own copy of the Travel Guide 2017 head over to you local LCBO and pick up the most recent Food and Drink magazine or download it here. The Travel Guide contains 97 pages full of info on the best and newest wineries to visit this summer and throughout the year.

People are always surprised when one of my first recommended places to visit is Ontario’s wine country but the reality is that you don’t need to fly to another coast to experience a day on a winery or find new and exciting wines. With the state of the Canadian dollar, this is the perfect summer to eat, drink and live local and wine country is a great starting point.

My Recommendations for Niagara Peninsula Wine Country

Ontario Wine Country is divided by appellations or in simpler terms geographical areas. These areas are defined by factors like climate, weather, and soil composition which all create different styles and flavour profiles in each bottle of wine. My go to appellation is the Niagara Peninsula which encompasses both the Niagara Escarpment and Niagara-On-The-Lake. I remember the very first time I visited Niagara-On-The-Lake as an adult and the pure joy I found in the restaurants, inns and wines that awaited me. Now, I travel to the area frequently with and without my kids. Here are my don’t miss spots for this summer.

Two Sisters Vineyards

Two Sisters Vineyards is by far one of my favourite wineries to visit. You will see why as soon as you arrive on the property. With over 76 gorgeously tended acres of land, the winery and the main building are stunning. Throw in lunch at onsite restaurant Kitchen 76 which serves incredible food but invites guests to be casually dressed and its the perfect stop on any vineyard tour. As I sip from the selections of wine, I like to dream of winning the lottery with my sister and buying the vineyard from the two sisters who actually own it. So far that dream has not actually come to fruition.

Stratus

I personally like to visit Stratus for what may not be seen as the usual reason to visit a winery. Frankly, I think the building looks cool. I love the modern touches, floor to ceiling glass windows and overall vibe of the winery. Until I picked up the Wine Country Ontario Travel Guide 2016, I actually had no idea that the winery was known for being the first fully LEED-certified winery in the world. Add in Stratus’ sustainability practices and this stop is a necessity.

Peller Estates Winery

One of the bigger wineries that I love to visit is Peller Estates Winery. Located in Niagara-On-The-Lake, this is a common stop on winery tours and can be quite busy. Still, there are lots of reasons to visit. There is plenty of room to roam the property and see the facilities in which the wine is made. Add-ons like chef Jason Parsons’ fun creations like ice wine marshmallows for roasting help make this one of my regular stops.

Back 10 Cellars

I discovered Back 10 Cellars at a wine festival and immediately fell in love with their wines. As the owner of the small 10-acre vineyard stood in the small booth and explained his techniques to the crowd, his enthusiasm for his wine was infectious. Back 10 Cellars’ wines are not available at the LCBO making this a definite stop to try something you may not find closer to home. My indulgence is the 2015 Smitten Sparkling.

Fielding Estate Winery

Fielding Estate Winery is located on the Beamsville Bench amongst a handful of other wineries. The staff at this winery make it worth visiting as they are always happy to see you and extremely welcoming. The wines are matched by a great selection of gifts for wine enthusiasts and the views over the grapes are stunning. Only open since 2005, Fielding Estate Winery has been named on of Canada’s Top 10 Wineries twice and Curtis Fielding was named Grape Grower of the Year in 2012-2013.

This post was sponsored by Wine Country Ontario. All reviews and opinions are entirely my own.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/a-guide-to-niagara-peninsula-wine-country/feed/36Celebrating Cinco de Mayo with Old El Paso + Enter to Win $275 Prize Packhttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/celebrating-cinco-de-mayo-old-el-paso-enter-win-275-prize-pack/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/celebrating-cinco-de-mayo-old-el-paso-enter-win-275-prize-pack/#commentsWed, 03 May 2017 13:17:37 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6083As a family who loves tacos, we never miss Cinco de Mayo. Held each year on May 5, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican Army’s defeat over the French in 1862. It’s also a great time to celebrate all things Mexico. To help kick start your Cinco de Mayo, here is one of my favourite […]

]]>As a family who loves tacos, we never miss Cinco de Mayo. Held each year on May 5, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican Army’s defeat over the French in 1862. It’s also a great time to celebrate all things Mexico. To help kick start your Cinco de Mayo, here is one of my favourite go-to meals for my family. I am also pleased to share a brand new contest just in time for the festivities. My friends at Old El Paso are giving away a prize pack valued at $275. Keep reading to enter!

Build Your Own Chicken Burrito Bowls With Old El Paso

This build your own chicken burrito bowl recipe is extremely customizable. Pick and choose the veggies and meat that works best for your family.

Serves 4

Ingredients

Old El Paso Fiesta Fajita Mix

Old El Paso Whole Wheat Burrito Bowls

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast

1 Fresh Lime

Olive Oil

1 Cup Long Grain White Rice

2 Cups Water

2 Tablespoons Butter

2 Teaspoons Salt

Fresh Cilantro

Romaine Lettuce

Bell Peppers

Tomatoes

Black Beans (1/2 can or use fresh)

Corn (1/2 can or use fresh)

Avocado

Preparation

Cilantro Lime Rice:

Make rice per directions. I combined 1 cup of long grain white rice, 2 cups of water, 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 teaspoons of rice in a small uncovered saucepan. Bring to a boil.

Once it comes to a boil turn the element to low and cover to simmer for 10 minutes. While the rice is simmering chop up some fresh cilantro (to taste) and cut the lime in half. The cilantro and juice of half a lime will be added just before serving. Make sure to mix well.

Fiesta Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan.

Cut thawed boneless skinless chicken into strips.

Once the oil is heated, add the chicken strips to the pan and cooked for 7 minutes stirring frequently.

Once cooked through add ½ cup of water and the fiesta seasoning mix. Turn off the heat and stir to combine.

The Fixings

Cut yellow and red bell pepper into strips and sautée in a frying pan. You could also cook this with the chicken strips for a more flavourful taste.

Chop all the other veggies and drain the canned corn/beans if you are not using fresh.

Serve the Old El Paso Burrito Bowls warm or cold (both are delicious). Enjoy building your own burrito bowls with your family.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/celebrating-cinco-de-mayo-old-el-paso-enter-win-275-prize-pack/feed/10550 Things To Do in Toronto with Kidshttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/50-things-to-do-in-toronto-this-summer-with-kids/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/50-things-to-do-in-toronto-this-summer-with-kids/#commentsWed, 29 Mar 2017 13:49:39 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=113850 Things to Do in Toronto With Kids If you are taking a trip to Toronto with kids or live in the city, here’s some great ideas and attractions for kids in Toronto. Go to Jr. Jays Saturday with the Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre. Whether are not you are going to the game, the free baseball […]

If you are taking a trip to Toronto with kids or live in the city, here’s some great ideas and attractions for kids in Toronto.

Go to Jr. Jays Saturday with the Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre. Whether are not you are going to the game, the free baseball themed bouncy houses, Ace the Blue Jay and the cheerleaders will keep your kids entertained.

Bounce their sillies out by playing heading to SkyZone in Toronto. Kids will literally jump for joy at the huge trampolines and dodgeball games.

Check out the incredible Out of the Depths: A Blue Whale Story at the Royal Ontario Museum. See how the ROM retrieved the full-scale whale skeleton after two whales perished and play with interactive and fun exhibits.

Enjoy a day of free fun in High Park. A giant park in a great neighborhood with a brand new playground, outdoor pool and tons of space to just be a kid. Perfect for picnics.

Test your skills at Toronto’s BMX bike course, Sunnyside Bike Park, or just marvel at the talent of some of the young riders.

Cycle the Toronto Islands, the largest car-free urban area in North America. No cars and wide paths make for great family cycling expeditions.

Go to Little India. Once you’ve conquered China Town head east on Gerrard to Little India technically the Gerrard India Bazaar. Kids love walking through the shops looking at the fabrics and jewels and will work up an appetite. Even if they don’t like the Indian Food, you can fill their tummies with delicious Naan.

Take a stroll at Kensington Market during Pedestrian Sundays. Food, music, art and tons of people watching.

Spend a Sunday afternoon at the Leslieville Market. Located across from a McDonalds your kids won’t even notice because they are having so much fun. A big park, live music, baked goods and gourmet popsicles are only part of the draw. Lots to see and do.

Pet a shark at Ripley’s Aquarium. Once you get to see the large sharks in Dangerous Lagoon, your kids will have the opportunity to pet a small shark. Ripley’s is open at night for the summer and I would recommend only visiting after 6 pm. You’ll avoid the crowds.

Try indoor skydiving with iFly Toronto. Kids as young as 4 are able to participate. More info here.

See the stars. Spend a day hanging out in Yorkville where celebrity sightings are a dime a dozen. The lobby bar of the Four Seasons Hotel is a good place to have a snack and teach your kids to look important.

Go to one of only three American Girl locations in Canada at Indigo Chapters. Located in the uber swank Yorkdale Mall or at the downtown Eaton Centre, Toronto girls can now take their dolls for haircuts, buy a new friend or simply stroll through the collection.

Take a cruise on a pirate ship. Set sail on the tall ship Kajama where they don’t care if you dress like a pirate and sort of like it. Admit it, you and your kids really wish you were pirates. Arrrrr.

Have dinner in Dufferin Grove Park on a Thursday night. This is the definition of Toronto community. A farmer’s market located in a great park with a wading pool and hot outdoor oven. Go early in the summer as you and your kids will want to go back.

Go hiking in the Rouge Valley. Explore on your own or take a free guided tour. Always a good chance that you will see some local wildlife including birds, snakes, frogs and deer.

Let your kids get dirty at the Evergreen Brick Works. Kids can explore the Children’s Garden and play with wheelbarrows and water. They won’t want to leave. You won’t want to let them in your car. Total summer.

Kick a soccer ball, fly a kite, play in a pirate ship park or just watch airplanes fly over your heads. You can do all this and more at one of Toronto’s best-kept secrets, Cherry Beach Sports Fields. Often empty early in the morning, during the week and even on weekends. Huge open space. Decent washrooms.

Go shopping at an Asian grocery store. T & T Supermarket is as authentic as it gets in North America. Your kids will be blown away by the food packages, dim sum section and general sights and smells.

Get a buzz. Check out the Canadian International Air Show taking place the September long weekend directly above the Toronto Island. The best seats for kids are found by taking the ferry to Hanlan’s point and sitting close to the fence on the west side of the Island. You can actually see the landing strip at Billy Bishop Airport. While you are waiting for the show, you can watch the goings-on at Porter Airlines.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/50-things-to-do-in-toronto-this-summer-with-kids/feed/14Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil Review; Can It Make You a Better Gamer?http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/bulletproof-brain-octane-oil-review/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/bulletproof-brain-octane-oil-review/#respondWed, 22 Mar 2017 13:48:35 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6042I’m a gamer. I have been since the original Nintendo NES hit the market when I was a kid. As my kids have gotten older, gaming has been a huge part of how we relax. At first, I took it easy on them but soon they were kicking my butt at every new game on […]

]]>I’m a gamer. I have been since the original Nintendo NES hit the market when I was a kid. As my kids have gotten older, gaming has been a huge part of how we relax. At first, I took it easy on them but soon they were kicking my butt at every new game on the market. When Bulletproof approached me to try their products, my immediate response was that I don’t drink coffee. They hit me back with an explanation that I didn’t have to and hinted that as a gamer it may improve my gaming skills. Improve my gaming skills? Alright, Bulletproof let’s see what you’ve got.

Bulletproof and the Brain

As I started researching Bulletproof to see which products I wanted to try, I was intrigued by their Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil. As I have shared in the past, my dad was diagnosed with and died of Early Onset Alzheimer’s. I live in fear that I will fall victim to a similar fate. I have 27 years left before I turn 65. My dad fell victim to the disease quite a lot earlier than 65 but it’s the benchmark I have set to conquer the disease.

Brain Octane Oil for Alzheimer’s

I spend hours researching how to stay healthy and delay what may be my pre-determined fate. Beyond wanting to beat my kids at video games, I also want to see where life takes them and be present as long as I can. So I was curious to try Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil. In my research, I’ve found that doctors all over the world are now recognizing that coconut oil is highly beneficial to the brain and in some cases can slow Alzheimer’s. The key to coconut oil is that it contain caprylic acid or C8. What surprised me the most is that Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil contains 10x the caprylic acid per tablespoon as one tablespoon of coconut oil. It also has anti-microbial effects that support a healthy gut and immune function. Researchers have also recently released information that a healthy gut may slow the progressional of Alzheimer’s disease. So why not give it a try?

Bulletproof360 Product Review

I knew off the bat that I wanted to try the Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil. I also thought I would give a few more products a try to see how they fit into my daily lifestyle. I wanted to see what effect they had on my energy levels and ability to focus on things like gaming. In the end, I picked Bulletproof FatWater, Collagen Brownie Bites, and KetoPrime. Here’s what I thought of each.

Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil

The Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil impressed me pretty early on in my testing. I agreed initially to try it for a month but within about a week already felt more alert and able to focus on gaming and writing. The oil is easy to incorporate into my daily routine as it can be added to smoothies, put into soup or even mixed into any salad dressing. A few days I have forgotten to have it in my smoothie and have simply poured it into a little juice and chugged it. There is no taste to it and besides a little oily sheen, it is hardly noticeable.

One thing I’ve really noticed using the oil is that I seem more awake and have a quicker response time to driving games like Mario Kart. I am also more alert in general daily tasks.

FatWater

My curiosity regarding FatWater revolved around the name. It is flavoured water that contains micro droplets of Brain Octane oil and is sugar-free. It also comes in my three absolute favourite drink flavours; lemon, grapefruit and pineapple.

I pretty much loved FatWater from my first sip. I tend to get tired about 3:oo pm which is also when my kids like to play games. I found that a bottle of FatWater immediately perked me up and made me feel more awake and focused. I only had 12 bottles and on day 13, I really missed this product. It’s one I will continue to order and use.

Collagen Brownie Bites

I was able to try out a box of Collagen Brownie Bites and must admit they weren’t for me. Made with protein from grass-fed cows and containing Brain Octane oil, they met my desire to incorporate the oil into my daily foods but the texture fell flat for me. I am a crunchy over chewy girl and find I would rather drink protein powder than eat it in bar form. That being said if you do like soft protein bars and want to incorporate quality protein, amino acids and brain octane oil into your diet these may be a better fit for you.

KetoPrime

KetoPrime is described by Bulletproof as high-performance brain food. It is essentially a daily supplement that helps you get through brain fog days. The primary ingredient is something called oxaloacetate which is already found in your body. Oxaloacetate’s main job is to get rid of excess glutamate, a neurotransmitter that affects your brain and is found in increased numbers in Alzheimer’s patients. I found the supplement easy to take. It tastes exactly like a vitamin C supplement and it quickly dissolves in your mouth. I tried taking it at different times of the day and found like the FatWater the most noticeable increase in energy and focus was right around the 3:00 pm mark.

So What Does It All Mean?

First off, for me, it means that there are now products on the market easily available to Canadians who are looking for exactly this result. The Brain Octane Oil, FatWater and KetoPrime all worked quickly to make me more energized and focused. I find I am better at gaming and have even beat my kids in some games that they used to blow me away on. More importantly, the products have provided me with enough energy and focus that at 3:00 pm, I’m simply a lot more fun for my kids. I want to play games and feel refreshed and energized without my mid-day slump.

As for whether or not Bulletproof can help me avoid Alzheimer’s, I am not entirely sure. The Brain Octane Oil is in-line with research that shows what will best help people avoid or at least push off the disease for as long as possible. For me, adding Brain Octane Oil to my diet is definitely a change worth making.

]]>http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/bulletproof-brain-octane-oil-review/feed/0Panasonic G85 – A Parent’s Dream Camerahttp://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/panasonic-g85-parents-dream-camera/
http://solomomtakesflight.com/blog/panasonic-g85-parents-dream-camera/#respondSat, 18 Mar 2017 12:37:01 +0000http://solomomtakesflight.com/?p=6047 Not long ago I was telling you all about how much I loved the Panasonic GX8. It was the first camera I really connected with and it made me feel like a bonafide photographer. The reality is that I’m not one but Panasonic has made it quite easy to pretend to be. Since that […]

Not long ago I was telling you all about how much I loved the Panasonic GX8. It was the first camera I really connected with and it made me feel like a bonafide photographer. The reality is that I’m not one but Panasonic has made it quite easy to pretend to be. Since that time, Panasonic has launched a smaller camera that I love taking with me wherever we go; the Panasonic G85. Check out why I think it’s the perfect camera for parents.

Panasonic G85

When I first picked up the Panasonic G85 (available here), I really liked the feel of it. It had some of the fun features that I missed when I transitioned from the older Panasonic G7 to the GX8. It also had a rugged exterior that made me feel like it could be around my kids and survive.

I wondered whether or not it would replace my beloved Panasonic GX8 but never really intended to start using it on a daily basis. Not surprisingly, months later, I still am not leaving home without it.

What I Love About the Panasonic G85

There’s quite a bit to like about this camera. Here are the features that I find most useful for parents.

Sealed Body & Rugged Design

I’m a mom on the go and we are always outdoors. Whether we are hiking in Hawaii or visiting amusement parks in Florida, I’m never prepared for the weather. What I love about the Panasonic G85 is that it is fully weather-sealed. While you can’t drop it in water, you can use it outside in rain and snow. Be sure to check that all compartments are closed including the built-in flash before exposing it to water. Don’t hesitate to catch great shots of your kids skiing or playing in the ocean.

Extra Battery Power

I noticed very quickly when using the G85 for weekends away and weekend long sports tournaments that the battery seemed to last an exceptionally long time. One of the key reasons is that the Panasonic G85 is equipped with an awesome power-save feature that you can turn on in the settings menu. You can choose for the camera to go into auto-sleep after 3, 5 or 10 seconds without use. To wake the camera back up, you simply need to press the shutter button. This has been key for me on long days out on the ocean searching for whales and big hikes with my kids. In the past, I have quickly drained camera batteries simply forgetting to turn it off. Now I don’t need to worry about it.

4K Photo

I first came across 4K photo using the Panasonic GX8. Now I can’t imagine photographing my kids without it. Essentially, using the 4K feature you can capture 30 seconds of video that is broken up into high-quality photos. This means I can capture the exact moment my kids’ toes hit freezing cold water or their mid-cartwheel smiles. It’s a feature that you’ll love if your kids are in sports as you won’t miss the moment they score a goal or cross the finish line.

16 Megapixel Live MOS Four-Thirds Sensor

As soon as I started shooting with the Panasonic G85, I noticed how clear and sharp my photos were. I found it was easy to capture fine details in shots of my kids like their eyelashes and wisps of baby hair. Although the GX8 is equipped with a 20-megapixel sensor, I find the G85 more than sufficient for the photos I am taking.

Post Focus

Post focus is one of the really fun features of the Panasonic G85. You can set the camera in post focus mode and take a photo. Then, you can look at the photo on the camera’s LCD screen and select which part of the photo you would like to be in focus. I find this a fun feature to play with and it makes for some great food shots.

Stability

One thing that has knocked my socks off with the Panasonic G85 is the incredible stability of the camera. I take a lot of night photos, particularly of fireworks, and most of the time I don’t bring along a tripod. Luckily, the Panasonic G85 is equipped with a dual image stabilizer. What this means is that it’s easier to capture clear and crisp images at night or during the day when your subject are moving.

My first experience taking night photos with the Panasonic G85 was at the Neon Museum in Las Vegas that expressly forbids tripods. While I was nervous that I would end up with a bunch of blurry shots, I was pleasantly surprised by how sharp and clear the photos turned out. I find more and more I am leaving my tripod at home feeling confident that I can still take some pretty cool night shots without it.

Price Point

The one thing parents always ask me is what camera to buy. They need to be durable, take great photos and usually be around the $1000 price point. The Panasonic G85 sells for $1,199.99 including a weather-sealed 12-60 mm f/3.5-5.6 lens. Everything you need to capture great photos is included. Find it here.

Panasonic G85

In the last year, I have really fallen in love with taking photos again. Now the only photos on my iPhone are those that I take on my camera and transfer via the G85’s built-in wi-fi. I love that our memories are being captured in beautiful high-quality photos that I can print and hang in our home. The G85 really surprised me as I wasn’t sure I could love a camera as much as the Panasonic GX8. While they two are different, they both have amazing features that will capture all of your best family moments.

Photos included in this posts were taken with the Panasonic Lumix G85. To learn more click here.